The third and final fixture of the T20I series between New Zealand and Australia will see miss marquee players. New Zealand's wicketkeeper-batter, Devon Conway has withdrawn from the squad due to a thumb injury sustained during the second T20I. Tim Seifert will replace Conway in the squad.
Conway was deemed unfit to bat after the injury made him difficult to keep wickets during fielding. The severity of his injury will be assessed by a hand specialist upon his return to Wellington, casting doubt on his immediate availability for future fixtures.
New Zealand will also welcome fast bowler Jacob Duffy into the squad as cover. Meanwhile, Rachin Ravindra, who missed the second game due to a left knee injury, remains under observation, with a decision on his fitness expected in the next 24 hours ahead of the final clash on February 25.
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Australia, too, are grappling with injury setbacks as opener David Warner has been ruled out of the series finale due to an adductor injury. However, Cricket Australia has assured fans that Warner's absence will not affect his participation in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) season in March and the subsequent T20 World Cup. With Warner sidelined, Steve Smith is poised for another opportunity at the top of the order alongside Travis Head.
Furthermore, the Australian camp is anticipated to rest key bowlers Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood for the last match of the series, with the visitors already having secured victory with a 2-0 lead.
Both teams are expected to announce additional squad changes as precautionary measures, particularly New Zealand, who may seek additional batting cover.