New Zealand have suffered a major setback ahead of the first ODI against India, with experienced batter Devon Conway ruled out of the series opener due to a concussion.
The left-handed batter sustained the injury following a collision with teammate Matt Henry during a training session at Eden Park in Auckland on Tuesday.
The incident occurred when both players attempted to take an aerial catch during the Black Caps' practice session ahead of Wednesday's series opener. The two players collided while going for the ball and immediately received medical attention from the team's support staff.
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New Zealand Cricket (NZC) confirmed the incident in an official statement, revealing that both players underwent Head Injury Assessments following the collision.
"Devon Conway and Matt Henry collided while attempting a catch during the BLACKCAPS training today at Eden Park. Both players were immediately treated by medical staff on-site and received Head Injury Assessments," NZC stated.
Conway was subsequently taken to the hospital's Accident and Emergency department for further examination, where medical assessments confirmed a concussion. As a result, he has been ruled out of the first ODI against India.
"Conway was taken to A&E (Accident and Emergency department in a hospital) for further examination which confirmed a concussion that has ruled him out of the first ODI against India tomorrow," the statement added.
Matt Henry Also Under Medical Observation
While Conway has already been ruled out of the series opener, concerns remain over the availability of Matt Henry for the upcoming matches.
New Zealand Cricket confirmed that both players would remain under medical observation following the incident. The team management will provide further updates regarding their participation in the remainder of the three-match ODI series in due course.
Conway's absence will be a significant blow for New Zealand, considering his experience and importance at the top of the batting order. The left-hander has been a regular feature in the Black Caps' batting line-up across formats and provides stability during the opening overs.
India Look To Carry T20I Momentum Into ODI Series
Meanwhile, India will enter the ODI series with confidence after securing a 3-2 victory in the recently concluded five-match T20I series against New Zealand.
The visitors will now look to carry that momentum into the 50-over format as both teams begin their preparations for the upcoming international assignments.