Matt Henry Hails New Zealand’s Historic 3-0 Test Series Win in India
Pacer Credits Preparation, Spin-Friendly Strategy, and Team Depth for Unprecedented Whitewash
Mumbai, October 7, 2025 – New Zealand pacer Matt Henry reflected on his side’s historic 3-0 Test series triumph against India, describing the victory as a result of careful preparation rather than a surprise. Speaking at the CEAT Cricket Rating Awards in Mumbai, Henry highlighted the team’s readiness and strategic approach that helped them overcome India in home conditions.
“This wasn’t a surprise. We were prepared. Our tour of Sri Lanka before the series gave us confidence in handling spin-friendly conditions and applying pressure effectively,” Henry said. He added that the series win, especially by a clean sweep, was “pretty amazing and special for New Zealand cricket.”
The series was marked by exceptional performances from spinners Ajaz Patel and Mitchell Santner, who outperformed their Indian counterparts, and Henry himself, who took 10 wickets in two matches, including a remarkable 5/15 in the first Bengaluru Test. This effort helped bundle India out for just 46 in their first innings, flipping the traditional home advantage on its head.
Looking ahead, Henry expressed excitement for the upcoming white-ball series against India, comprising three ODIs and five T20Is starting January 11, 2026. He emphasized the importance of the series as preparation for the T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka next year.
Commenting on India’s T20 talent, Henry praised the fearless approach of batters like Abhishek Sharma, highlighting the challenges this poses for bowlers. “The depth of Indian cricket in T20s is incredible. They will be one of the teams to beat in the World Cup,” he said.
Henry concluded by noting that the aggressive, high-scoring style of modern T20 cricket keeps bowlers on their toes but also provides opportunities to make game-changing impacts through wicket-taking.
The historic series win marks a turning point in New Zealand cricket, ending India’s 12-year unbeaten home record and reinforcing the Black Caps as a formidable force in international cricket.
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