Devon Conway, the opener for New Zealand, won’t be in the early parts of the 2024 Indian Premier League (IPL). An injured thumb requires surgery. Devon Conway hurt last month in Wellington during the first T20I game against Australia. The injury made him miss the rest of the home series.
First, tests cleared Devon Conway of any major injury. After some more discomfort though, more tests showed a minor crack in his left thumb joint. So, surgery is needed. The healing process should take about eight weeks. This likely means he can’t play for the first part of the season.
Devon Conway is likely to be back for the IPL’s second half and the 2024 T20 World Cup in the Caribbean and the USA, says an ESPN report. This is expected for New Zealand’s team.
Devon Conway has quickly established himself as an important member of the Chennai Super Kings, developing a strong rapport with fellow opener Ruturaj Gaikwad. In the absence of the left-handed hitter, CSK can use Rachin Ravindra as an opener, which frees up an overseas spot, or explore a complete change in the squad lineup.
In the first Test in Wellington against Australia, Devon Conway stepped down. Will Young filled his shoes for New Zealand. Sadly, they lost by 172 runs. The second Test will happen in Christchurch. The date? March 8.
Kane Williamson of New Zealand suffered a broken thumb during the 2023 ODI World Cup. The star hitter was struck on the thumb by an errant throw midway through the league stage encounter against Bangladesh.
An injury sidelined him for most of the tournament. Yet, he bounced back in time to take part in the final series of games for his team.
Ben Sears replaces injured William O’Rourke in NZ squad for 2nd Test
Neil Wagner, a recently retired left-arm seamer, was not considered despite William O’Rourke’s injury.
New Zealand Cricket has named Ben Sears as a substitute for the second Test, which has also been confirmed by head coach Gary Stead.
“Disappointing for Will and disappointing for us because I thought he bowled fantastically well and for a guy that’s so young in his Test career it looks like the Australians were certainly respecting him in the way that they’re playing him. I thought his spell before he got injured was absolutely outstanding.”
“He’ll be a big loss for us. Ben Sears for us as the closest I guess like for like replacement that we thought we could find. We wanted someone with some genuine pace. Ben’s done that he’s had recent international success against Australia as well which was part of the decision-making and in going with him as the replacement for Will.”
Gary Stead
O’Rourke recently made news after taking nine wickets against South Africa. The tall seamer has been a valuable asset to the Kiwis in his early international career and will be a big loss for the pace-bowling squad, which already lacks Trent Boult and Kyle Jamieson.