New Zealand have suffered a setback ahead of the second ODI against India, with opener Devon Conway ruled out of the remainder of the five-match series after sustaining a concussion during a training session. However, the hosts have received a boost with fast bowler Matt Henry cleared to return to selection.
Conway and Henry were involved in a collision while attempting to take a catch during a fielding practice session ahead of the series opener in Auckland on Tuesday. Both players subsequently missed Wednesday’s first ODI as they underwent medical assessments.
New Zealand Cricket confirmed on Friday that Conway would take no further part in the series, while Henry had been cleared of concussion and was available for selection for the second match.
Left-handed batter Nick Kelly has been called up as Conway’s replacement. Kelly, who was initially named in the squad for the fourth and fifth ODIs, will now join the team in Wellington ahead of Saturday’s encounter.
The change has also prompted a reshuffle in the New Zealand A squad. Kelly has been withdrawn from the side scheduled to face India A in the third unofficial Test in Lincoln, with Auckland batter Dale Phillips named as his replacement.
The injury news comes at a crucial stage for New Zealand, who are trailing 0-1 in the series after losing the rain-affected opening ODI to India by five wickets under the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern method at Eden Park.
India’s bowling attack restricted New Zealand to 185, with Anshul Kamboj returning figures of 2/22 in his 10 overs to earn the Player of the Match award. The visitors subsequently completed the revised chase to take an early lead in the series.
The second ODI will be played at Hnry Stadium in Wellington on Saturday, November 7. New Zealand will look to level the series, while India will aim to extend their advantage.
