Tim Southee’s Cricket World Cup 2023 Participation Uncertain After Thumb Surgery

New Zealand’s preparations for the Cricket World Cup 2023 have hit a significant hurdle as star fast bowler Tim Southee faces uncertainty regarding his participation. Southee, who sustained a dislocated and fractured thumb during New Zealand’s tour of England, has elected to undergo surgery to address the injury. The outcome of this procedure, expected to be determined by doctors next week, will play a pivotal role in whether the veteran bowler can don the Kiwi jersey for the World Cup.

Injury Sustained in Final ODI at Lord’s

Confirmation of Tim Southee’s injury came from New Zealand Cricket, shedding light on the fast bowler’s condition after the final ODI match against England at Lord’s. The 34-year-old cricketer’s selection for the World Cup is now contingent upon the success of the upcoming surgery and his subsequent recovery.

Despite the challenges posed by Southee’s injury, New Zealand’s head coach, Gary Stead, remains hopeful about the fast bowler’s prospects of joining the World Cup squad. Stead expressed his optimism, saying, “We’ve got our fingers crossed the surgery goes well for Tim.”

Stead further detailed the nature of Southee’s surgery, explaining, “He’ll have some pins or screws inserted in his right thumb, and, providing the procedure is a success, it will be a matter of ensuring Tim can tolerate the pain and manage the actual wound when returning to train and play.”

Crucial World Cup Opener Looms

New Zealand is scheduled to kick off their Cricket World Cup 2023 campaign on October 5th in Ahmedabad, India. This date is considered a “logical target” for Southee’s return, according to Coach Stead. The fast bowler’s experience and skill make him a crucial asset to the team, and the Kiwis are eager to have him back in action.

Stead emphasised Southee’s importance, stating, “Tim’s obviously a hugely experienced and important figure in our team. We want to give him every chance to be part of this World Cup campaign.”

Other Injury Concerns for New Zealand

New Zealand’s World Cup preparations have been marked by several injury concerns. All-rounder Daryl Mitchell briefly caused alarm when he walked off the field during the same match as Southee, but his minor finger injury is not expected to impact his participation.

Another concern revolves around Kane Williamson‘s fitness. The ODI skipper is part of New Zealand’s World Cup squad but has yet to engage in competitive action following a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in his right knee.

Currently, the New Zealand team is in Bangladesh for a three-match ODI series, beginning in Mirpur. They have scheduled Cricket World Cup warm-up matches against Pakistan in Hyderabad on September 29 and South Africa in Trivandrum on October 2.

The Kiwis are navigating a challenging period with injuries, hoping to assemble their strongest squad for the Cricket World Cup 2023, while keeping a close watch on Tim Southee’s recovery progress.

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