Tim Southee will have surgery on Thursday to repair
the thumb injury he suffered in last week’s match against England. New Zealand
is still optimistic that he will be able to play in the World Cup.
When Southee attempted to take a catch at a slip
supplied by Joe Root at Lord’s, he fractured and dislocated his right thumb.
Early next week, a decision regarding his availability will be made.
“We’ve got our fingers crossed the surgery goes
well for Tim,” head coach Gary Stead said. “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.
“Our opening game of the World Cup against
England is not until Thursday October 5 in Ahmedabad, so that would be our
logical target in terms of his availability.
“Tim’s obviously a hugely experienced and
important figure in our team and we want to give him every chance to be part of
this World Cup campaign.”
With 214 wickets at 33.60, Southee ranks third among
New Zealanders in ODIs. He has participated in three World Cups.
He was one of the team’s four specialised quicks,
along with Trent Boult, Matt Henry, and Lockie Ferguson. Additionally, Kane
Williamson is a member of the group as he makes his way back from an ACL tear,
though it’s unclear when he will be able to play.
New Zealand play two warm-up matches on September 29
against Pakistan and October 2 against South Africa.