NZ vs IND: Devon Conway ruled out of ODI series; Matt Henry fit for 2nd match

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In a major blow to New Zealand’s campaign, top-order batter Devon Conway has been ruled out of the remainder of the ODI series against India after suffering a concussion. Conversely, fast bowler Matt Henry has received medical clearance to return to action ahead of the second ODI in Wellington on Saturday.

Both players were unavailable for the series opener in Auckland on Wednesday after colliding during a practice session on the eve of the match.

While Conway takes no further part in the five-match series, Matt Henry passed concussion protocols and is available for selection.

Left-handed batter Nick Kelly, who was originally slated to feature only in the final two ODIs, has been drafted into the squad in Wellington immediately to cover for Conway.

Kelly’s promotion has led to his withdrawal from the New Zealand A setup, where he was scheduled to play India A in their third unofficial Test in Lincoln starting Saturday. Auckland batter Dale Phillips has been named as his replacement in the New Zealand A squad.

“Devon Conway has been ruled out of the remaining ODIs against India after sustaining a concussion while fielding during training on Tuesday. Left-handed batter Nick Kelly, who was selected for ODIs four and five, will assemble with the squad today in Wellington to replace Conway,” as per a statement from the New Zealand Cricket website.

“Matt Henry, who was involved in the fielding mishap with Conway, has been cleared of concussion. Auckland Aces batter Dale Phillips will replace Kelly in the New Zealand A squad for the final four-day match against India A starting on Saturday,” the statement further added.

India lead 1-0 after Auckland win as series shifts to Wellington

India established a 1-0 series lead after claiming a five-wicket victory (DLS method) in a rain-curtailed opener at Eden Park in Auckland on Wednesday. Fast bowler Anshul Kamboj earned Player of the Match honours for a magnificent spell, taking 2/22 in his 10 overs.

New Zealand and India will square off in the second ODI on Saturday at Seddon Park in Hamilton, with the hosts desperate to level the series while India aim to consolidate their lead.

(With inputs from agencies)

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