In a significant development, New Zealand’s pace sensation, Tim Southee, is set to undergo surgery to address a thumb injury that he dislocated and fractured during the team’s final ODI against England. The decision to proceed with surgery, a crucial step toward his recovery, has raised questions about his availability for the upcoming Cricket World Cup 2023.

New Zealand Cricket (NZC) has officially confirmed that a decision regarding Tim Southee’s participation in the ICC Cricket World Cup will be determined shortly after the surgery’s results become known. The 34-year-old fast bowler’s fate now rests in the hands of medical professionals who will assess the procedure’s success.

In an official statement, NZC stated, “A decision on the senior pace-bowler’s availability for the upcoming ICC Cricket World Cup in India will be made early next week once the results of the surgery are known.”

Despite the uncertainty, New Zealand’s coach, Gary Stead, remains optimistic about Tim Southee’s prospects of making a swift recovery and being available for the tournament. Stead stated in an official NZC release, “We’ve got our fingers crossed that the surgery goes well for Tim. 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.”

Stead also emphasized the importance of Southee to the team, saying, “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.”

Leading up to the Cricket World Cup 2023, New Zealand faces several challenges. In addition to Southee’s injury, there were concerns about Daryl Mitchell, who left the field during the same game due to a minor finger injury, although this injury is not expected to affect the all-rounder’s availability.

Moreover, the fitness of star player Kane Williamson is under scrutiny. Williamson recently underwent surgery to repair a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in his right knee and has not yet returned to competitive action. As a vital member of New Zealand’s Cricket World Cup squad, his recovery timeline will be closely monitored.