Matt Henry believes the Black Caps can provide the perfect distraction for New Zealanders frazzled by the 7.5 magnitude earthquake which hit the country early on Monday morning.
The earthquake, centred near Hanmer Springs in North Canterbury, was felt throughout New Zealand, triggering tsunami alerts and leaving the coastal tourist town of Kaikoura completely isolated.
The Black Caps begin the first of two Tests against Pakistan at Hagley Oval in Christchurch on Thursday, and Henry says the timing couldn't be better.
"It always brings the community together, and for a brief moment you can get back to a bit of normality," Henry said.
Henry was also in Christchurch for the 2011 February earthquake which killed 185 people, and says it was special to see the way Canterbury and the country as a whole came together afterwards.
"It's a big thing to deal with, but it was amazing to be here and see the community come together in such a tough time.
"It's probably good timing to have the Test match this week, and hopefully the weather plays its part."
Henry also feels he's in a good place in the run-in to the first Test, having recharged his batteries after returning from the Black Caps tour of India.
The 24-year-old right-armer is engaged in a three-way battle with Tim Southee, Trent Boult and Neil Wagner for a seamer's spot in the team
"Everything's feeling really good - it's been nice to come home and get a good conditioning block under the belt," he said.
