Tom Latham Misses Fifth T20I Against South Africa Due to Thumb Injury
Synopsis
In a significant blow to New Zealand's T20I campaign, Tom Latham has been ruled out of the final match against South Africa due to a thumb injury. This article explores the implications of his absence and the team's adjustments.
Key Takeaways
Tom Latham is out of the fifth T20I due to a thumb injury.
Minor fracture revealed by scans; expected recovery in 2-3 weeks.
Tom Blundell will cover for Latham in the squad.
James Neesham captained the team in Latham's absence.
The T20I series currently stands at 3-1 in favor of New Zealand.
Christchurch, March 24 (NationPress) New Zealand cricketer Tom Latham will miss the fifth and final T20I against South Africa at Hagley Oval on Wednesday due to a thumb injury.
Latham sustained a blow to his left thumb from South African fast bowler Nqobani Mokoena during the third T20I at Eden Park on Friday. According to NZC, medical scans indicated a minor fracture at the tip of his thumb, and he is anticipated to be back in training within two to three weeks.
Tom Blundell, who was added to the squad as a top-order batting and wicketkeeping option in the third T20I following Latham's injury, will continue to serve as cover.
Despite the injury, Latham continued to play and finished with an impressive 63 not out, leading the Black Caps to an eight-wicket victory. Medical personnel assessed his thumb after the match, and he was airlifted to Christchurch the following morning for further scans.
In Latham's absence, James Neesham captained the team at Eden Park, marking a significant milestone as it was the first instance in his ten-year international career that he led New Zealand in T20I matches, making him the country’s twelfth T20I captain.
Earlier in the series, Ish Sodhi and Bevon Jacobs were also sidelined due to injuries—a fractured thumb and a left knee injury, respectively. Jacobs had to leave the field during the first T20I after a fall, and subsequent scans revealed bone bruising on his knee, leading to Katene Clarke joining the squad for the second T20I in Hamilton as a replacement.
Meanwhile, Sodhi suffered a thumb injury while bowling during team training at Bay Oval before the series began, with scans confirming a break that will require at least four weeks of rehabilitation.
Lockie Ferguson was incorporated into the squad for the second and third matches held in Hamilton and Auckland.
The five-match series currently stands at 3-1 in favor of the home team.
Point of View
It is crucial to highlight the impact of injuries on team dynamics and performance. Tom Latham's absence is a significant setback for New Zealand, but it also provides an opportunity for other players to step up and showcase their abilities.
NationPress
21 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused Tom Latham's injury?
Tom Latham injured his left thumb after being struck by a delivery from South African bowler Nqobani Mokoena during the third T20I.
How long will Tom Latham be out?
Latham is expected to be out for two to three weeks as he recovers from a minor fracture in his thumb.
Who will replace Tom Latham in the squad?
Tom Blundell will continue to serve as cover for Latham in the squad.
What was Latham's performance before his injury?
Before his injury, Tom Latham scored 63 not out in the third T20I, helping New Zealand secure an eight-wicket victory.
What is the current standing of the T20I series?
As of now, the five-match T20I series is 3-1 in favor of New Zealand.
