Devon Conway cleared of major harm after taking a blow to the thumb. Despite no significant injuries, Conway is uncertain for the third T20I in Auckland on Sunday, February 25.
New Zealand is trying to make a comeback in the present three-match T20I series against Australia. However, the hosts experienced a setback when opening batsman Devon Conway sustained an injury scare during the second T20I in Auckland. Despite being cleared of a severe fracture, Conway’s availability for the vital third T20I is doubtful, adding to New Zealand’s concerns ahead of the upcoming Test series against Australia.
With Australia leading the three-match T20I series 2-0, the third match is crucial for both teams. Australia aims for a clean sweep, while New Zealand seeks redemption following consecutive setbacks. However, injuries to important players such as Devon Conway and Rachin Ravindra have made things more difficult for the Kiwis.
Conway’s injury came early in the second T20I. When he struck on the left thumb by a stinging delivery from Adam Milne down the leg side. Despite initial worries, X-rays found ‘no visible fracture. ‘ However, Conway’s participation in the third T20I is doubtful, casting doubt on New Zealand’s batting lineup.
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Glenn Phillips described Devon Conway’s injury as “pretty swollen.”
Glenn Phillips, the left-hander’s colleague, acknowledged Conway’s absence and the influence it had on New Zealand’s performance.
“At the end of the day, we were four down for not much, and Devon might have been one of those wickets. But obviously, he’s an important part of our batting lineup, and he always instills confidence in the people behind him. “It was a big loss, but at the end of the day wickets fell,” Glenn Phillips stated.
“All I know is its pretty swollen and it wasn’t worth going out there then,” he said.
Adam Zampa also cited Conway’s absence as a key factor in Australia’s victory in the match.
“Reckon, Conway could be a big out for them in that situation, and that was practically the perfect start for us. Unfortunately for him, I hope his thumbs are fine, [but] he’s the type of guy who can bat through, which made it a lot more difficult for New Zealand,” the leg spinner said.
In a statement about Conway’s availability, New Zealand Cricket said. “He will be treat and monitor over the coming days before a decision is made on his availability for the third T20I.”
Furthermore, Rachin Ravindra’s absence due to knee soreness harm New Zealand’s batting order, depriving them of two vital players from prior encounters.
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