OVERSEAS signing Matt Henry hopes to play his part in the bowling attack to fire Worcestershire back to Division One of the Specsavers County Championship.
The 24-year-old Kiwi only arrived in the UK last week but was hoping to make his debut in the clash with Kent despite the game being heavily delayed due to a wet outfield at New Road.
Speaking to the Observer, Henry praised the ‘great bunch of guys’ and said he couldn’t wait to pull on his bowling boots.
“I’ve played here a couple of times and always enjoyed my time here so it’s quite nice now to take a good look around the city and see what Worcester has to offer,” he said.
“I think around this time of year it’s always good to get out and actually play some cricket, keep developing as a player and learn about new conditions.
“Just meeting new people is cool and to come into an environment like this. It’s going to be a good summer.
“Worcestershire has had great success with this bowling unit, it’s an experienced side with some young fellas coming through which is great to see.
“It will be great to fit into the bowling unit and play my part.”
The paceman impressed Steve Rhodes when he helped his country to a 15-run win over Worcestershire at New Road in May 2015, returning 2-71 in the first innings and 3-58 in the second.
Henry’s signing was secured after Director of Cricket Rhodes approached New Zealand Cricket and the move received the blessing of Kiwi head coach Mike Hesson.
“They approached me and thought it would be good for my development as well as it being very enjoyable to come and take part in the English summer,” he added.
“I don’t think I have heard anyone with a bad experience of county cricket so I am looking forward to getting going.”
Henry follows in the footsteps of fellow New Zealanders Mitchell McClenaghan and Colin Munro and will be joined by fellow Kiwi Mitchell Santner for the club’s T20 campaign in May.
“It will be great to have Mitch (Santner) here, he’s a great man and a good player and he will fit in very well here.
“I want to keep developing as a player and have a good impact and help Worcestershire achieve their goals for the season.
“I want to push forward and make the Test side for the South Africa and Zimbabwe tour but that’s a long way down the track,” he added.