New Zealand seamer Matt Henry has replaced David Willey in the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) squad in IPL 2024, the franchise announced in a statement ahead of their second match of this season against Punjab Kings at home on Saturday (March 30). Willey, who announced his retirement from international cricket following the conclusion of the 2023 World Cup in India, pulled out of the tournament for personal reasons.

Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!

ALSO READ | BAN v SL, 2nd Test, Day 1: Fans mock Bangladesh for taking hilarious DRS call – Watch

LSG coach Justin Langer said earlier that Willey will miss the first half of the season after appearing for back-to-back franchise-based leagues worldwide, including the ILT20 and Pakistan Super League (PSL). Before Willey, his compatriot, Mark Wood, who also picked a five-for for LSG last season, pulled out of the tournament to stay fresh for the 2024 T20 World Cup and the following English summer.

LSG replaced Wood with West Indian sensation Shamar Joseph, who rose to fame for his heroics against Australia in the famous Gabba Test early this year. Joseph is yet to make his IPL debut.

The right-arm seamer Henry had represented Chennai Super Kings and Punjab Kings earlier. In 2017, he represented Punjab, picking just one wicket at economy of 14.2. 

Although Henry missed last year’s marquee event in India due to a hamstring strain, he returned stronger in the five-match T20Is against Pakistan in January. 

Henry was also New Zealand’s best player against Australia and South Africa in the home Tests, returning with 23 wickets from four matches. Against Australia, Henry was handy with the bat, scoring 101 runs in two games.

LSG aims to open account in IPL 2024

After losing their season-opener against Rajasthan Royals by 20 runs, LSG has plenty to ponder with their approach heading into the second match. 

Although KL Rahul’s below-par strike rate against RR again hogged all the limelight, the franchise will want an improved performance from him against PBKS.

LSG is unlikely to change their playing XI, meaning Marcus Stoinis, who missed out on Australia’s central contract list for the coming season, will have a point to prove. Alongside Nicholas Pooran, both will make up for a hard-hitting lower-order pair.

Moreover, bowling remains LSG’s go-to department, with match-winners like Ravi Bishnoi and Naveen-ul-Haq. 

While Punjab is sitting in the top half of the points table, with two points from as many games, Lucknow is languishing in the bottom half with zero points.

You can now write for Baazigarnews.com and be a part of the Baazigar family. Share your stories and opinions with us here.