Kolkata, March 5 New Zealand pacer Matt Henry said it felt "pretty special" to reach another T20 World Cup final through a comprehensive nine-wicket win over South Africa in the semi-final, especially after returning home for the birth of his son.
At Eden Gardens, pace spearhead Matt Henry took 2-34 as New Zealand entered their second T20 World Cup final. Opener Finn Allen smashed the fastest century in tournament history in just 33 balls to propel New Zealand into Sunday’s final in Ahmedabad, where they will face either India or England.
Henry’s effort with the ball was notable given that he took the field less than 24 hours after returning to India, after having flown home on paternity leave following New Zealand’s last Super Eights match against England on February 27.
"It was pretty special to be able to get home for that. Obviously, Holly is doing really well, and Jack is also doing great, and Annabelle is enjoying being a big sister, so it's all good. So, yes, it was pretty special to be home for that.
"It's pretty special to be able to reach another final; the guys are really excited, but for now, just enjoy this (win). I think the guys have been playing some really good cricket. Finn was just unbelievable, so we'll enjoy that, and then we can move on and get ready for what's to come," said Henry to reporters at the conclusion of the game.
Asked on how he prepared for the semi-final clash, Henry said he relied on his experience and the sleep hours he got while coming to Kolkata. "Well, we've had a lot of cricket, so I think at this point, there's trust. Obviously, if there's rain, you can't train either, so just going for that approach where making sure they're mentally fresh, mentally ready, and just being confident in your skills.
"So, for me, it was getting here and doing a job for the team, and thankfully, we did that. There was a lot of sleep happening on the way back; so, for me, just focusing on obviously my family to get home – that was important for me, and then, if it worked out that I could get home in time, then obviously it would be great. Sorry, I was always going home, but to get back for the semi-final, it's great to be here."
He also felt that the Blackcaps bowling lineup did well in restricting South Africa to 169/8, though Marco Jansen brought some late fireworks with his rapid fifty. "I think the way to restrict that side to that total of 169 was a brilliant job. I think we'd be taking that any day here at Kolkata and Eden Gardens.
"Obviously, it's tough when you've got a small side (boundaries) like that to protect. It can be really dangerous with the power-hitters they possess. So, I think the way we did a great job controlling that. Also, wresting some momentum into our batting innings, which is obviously really good as well."
