The Kiwis opener Devon Conway is set to miss the first test of Australia’s tour of New Zealand 2024 owing to his left thumb injury.
Devon Conway to miss Australia Test
The left-handed batter suffered a left thumb fracture during the second T20I match of the home tour against Australia and missed the third T20I match.
Initial scans revealed that he was free from fracture but further scans revealed concerns with the thumb. He will now undergo further investigation has revealed concerns about the thumb.
While speaking about the player the head coach Gary Stead said, “It’s disappointing for Devon to be ruled out on the eve of an important match. 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.”
“I think in hindsight, we probably got that wrong the way that the pitch did behave,” Stead said. “We’ve certainly got Mitch Santner here as that option and we’ll certainly consider him as well.”
New Zealand will be facing Australia after securing their first test series win against Proteas in 92 years.
“We don’t play Australia that often, which is strange considering that they’re just across the Tasman there,” Stead said.
“But, look, they always set the benchmark and are current world Test champions and they are that for a reason. They’re a very good side. But that’s our opportunity.”
“And that’s for us to go out and I guess show our wares and we’re certainly looking forward to the challenge that is ahead.”
Additionally, Neil Wagner has announced his retirement from international cricket and will not be in the playing 11 for the first test.
Meanwhile, Daryl Mitchell returns to the squad after missing the second test against South Africa. Matt Henry will be rejoining the side after missing the T20I series due to hip soreness.
On the other hand, Australia comes to play a test against the Kiwis after a successful run in the test series against West Indies on the home tour.
Australia has planned to go with the same bowling attack for the sixth consecutive test and has announced they’re playing 11 for the first test.
New Zealand and Australia will play their first test match starting on February 29 at Basin Reserve.
New Zealand squad for first test
Tim Southee (c), Tom Blundell (wk), Devon Conway, Matt Henry, Scott Kuggeleijn, Tom Latham, Daryl Mitchell, Will O’Rourke, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, Neil Wagner, Kane Williamson, Will Young
