Tim Southee will undergo surgery for a dislocated thumb.

Tim Southee is scheduled to have surgery for the thumb injury he got during a game against England last week, which is a significant setback for New Zealand.

At Lord’s, Tim Southee attempted to catch a slip supplied by Joe Root when he was hurt, breaking and dislocating his right thumb in the process.

There is still a slim possibility that Tim Southee may travel to the World Cup.

It will be a matter of ensuring that Southee can manage the real wound and handle the pain while returning to practice and competition, according to head coach Gary Stead, who voiced hope about Tim Southee rehabilitation.

We’re crossing our fingers that Tim’s surgery goes well; he’ll have some pins or screws put in his right thumb. Assuming the procedure is successful, it will be up to Tim to manage the actual wound when he returns to practice and play, according to head coach Gary Stead, who was quoted by ESPNcricinfo.

On Thursday, October 5, in Ahmedabad, New Zealand will play its first World Cup match. The anticipated aim for Southee’s prospective availability is this day. Stead emphasized Southee’s value to the club, calling him a key player with a wealth of experience.

The natural goal date for his availability would be Thursday, October 5, when we play England in our World Cup opener in Ahmedabad. We want to give Tim every opportunity to participate in this World Cup campaign because he is a tremendously experienced and significant member of our team, the coach continued.

Southee, who has played in three prior World Cups, is New Zealand’s third-highest ODI wicket-taker with 214 wickets at an average of 33.60. Along with Trent Boult, Matt Henry, and Lockie Ferguson, he was one of the four specialist quicks selected for the New Zealand team. Kane Williamson, who is recovering from an ACL injury, is also a member of the team, though it is unclear when he will be available.

New Zealand will play two warm-up games before the World Cup: one against Pakistan on September 29 and another against South Africa on October 2.