New Zealand’s cricket camp is grappling with a sudden COVID-19 outbreak during the ongoing T20I series against Pakistan, as opening batter Devon Conway and Bowling coach Andre Adams have tested positive for the virus. The developments have led to a series of changes ahead of the crucial fourth T20I.
Conway Ruled Out; Chad Bowes Steps In
The New Zealand Cricket Board, through their official Twitter handle, announced that Devon Conway has been ruled out of the fourth T20I against Pakistan after testing positive for COVID-19. Conway is currently in isolation at the team’s Christchurch hotel. In his absence, Canterbury batter Chad Bowes has been called in as a replacement.
“Devon Conway has been ruled out of the fourth T20I against Pakistan after testing positive for COVID. Conway has been in isolation at the team’s Christchurch hotel after testing positive yesterday. Canterbury Kings batsman Chad Bowes will join the squad today as cover. #NZvPAK,” the official statement on Twitter read.
Andre Adams Also Tests Positive
Adding to the challenges, the Blackcaps Twitter handle informed that Bowling coach Andre Adams has also tested positive for COVID-19. Adams will remain in isolation at the team’s hotel. To fill the void left by Adams, Canterbury Men’s Development Coach Brendon Donkers will join the team for the upcoming match.
“Bowling coach Andre Adams has also tested positive for COVID and will also remain at the team’s hotel. Canterbury Men’s Development Coach Brendon Donkers will join the team for today’s match to help out in Adams’ place. #NZvPAK,” they tweeted.
Series Impact and Pressure on New Zealand
This unfortunate turn of events comes after Mitchell Santner was ruled out of the first T20I due to a positive COVID-19 test. As New Zealand faces the fourth T20I without key players like Conway, the pressure is on them to maintain their momentum and secure victory in the series, where they currently lead 3-0.
The cricketing world will closely watch how the Blackcaps cope with the challenges posed by the COVID-19 outbreak and if the replacements can step up to the occasion in the upcoming match against Pakistan.
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