New Zealand opener Devon Conway will miss the third and final Test against England at Seddon Park, Hamilton, to be with his family for the birth of his first child. The Black Caps announced that Auckland Aces batter Mark Chapman will replace Conway in the squad for the dead rubber game.
New Zealand head coach Gary Stead expressed full support for Conway’s decision.
“Family comes first in this environment, and we’re all really excited for Dev and his wife Kim to welcome their first child,” Stead said. “Mark was with the Test squad in India recently and returned to the Plunket Shield by scoring an impressive 276 – so it’s a good time for him to be joining us.”
Will Young Likely to Replace Devon Conway
With Conway unavailable, Will Young is expected to return to the starting XI. Young was the standout performer during New Zealand’s tour of India. He scored 244 runs at an average of 48.40. However, the 31-year-old has been sidelined during the England series following Kane Williamson’s return from injury.
Williamson has been in good touch lately. He has scored two half-centuries and has been the team’s top run-scorer with 195 runs at 48.75. Despite that, New Zealand’s batting has disappointed to a large extent. Conway, in particular, has had a very disappointing series. He has averaged only 5.25 in the first two matches.
New Zealand Contemplating Changes
After two heavy defeats, New Zealand skipper Tom Latham hinted at potential changes to the playing XI. However, he will wait till the team reaches Hamilton.
Scott Boland Earns Praises from Teammates After Adelaide Heroics
Left-arm spinner Mitchell Santner could be in contention for selection, given the flat nature of Hamilton’s surface. Tim Southee, who has announced his retirement from Test cricket after this series, is expected to play his farewell match at his home ground despite a lackluster performance, managing just four wickets at an average of 61.50 in the series so far.
“The squad will regroup in Hamilton on Wednesday. We’ll take a look at the conditions before finalizing the balance of the team,” Latham said after New Zealand’s defeat at the Basin Reserve.
Stay updated with all the cricketing action, follow Cricadium on WhatsApp, Facebook, Twitter, Telegram, and Instagram
