New Zealand and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) opening batter, Devon Conway has been ruled out of the upcoming Test match against Australia in Wellington due to a thumb injury incurred during the T20I series that just wrapped up. In his absence, Henry Nicholls has been drafted into the squad, with Will Young poised to step in as Conway's replacement at the top of the order.
"It's disappointing for Devon to be ruled out on the eve of an important match," New Zealand coach Gary Stead said.
"He's a class player batting at the top of the order for us and I know he was really looking forward to this series," he added.
What happened to Devon Conway?
The injury occurred during the second T20I in Auckland when Conway was performing wicketkeeping duties on Friday. Despite initial scans not showing a fracture, Conway was unable to keep wickets or bat after the incident and subsequently sat out the series' finale. Further examinations have since indicated that the thumb sustained significant damage.
The New Zealand cricket team's medical staff will continue to monitor Conway's condition throughout the week to assess the full extent of his injury and to make a more definitive diagnosis. The second Test of the series is scheduled to be held in Christchurch starting March 8.
Rachin Ravindra also banged up
Additionally, concerns had been raised about all-rounder Rachin Ravindra's fitness after he experienced discomfort in his left knee, which led to him missing the last T20I. However, head coach Gary Stead has confirmed that the 24-year-old promising player will be fit and ready to participate in the Test at Basin Reserve.
Conway and Ravindra part of CSK's squad
The CSK contingent will be worried about the fitness of their two marquee overseas players with the 2024 edition of the cash-rich tournament slated to begin in less than a month.
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