Devon Conway cleared of major injury after suffering blow to thumb during second T20I against Australia

New Zealand is hoping for a comeback in the ongoing three-match T20I series against Australia. But the hosts faced a setback when opening batter Devon Conway suffered an injury scare during the second T20I in Auckland. However, despite being cleared of a significant fracture, Conway's availability for the crucial third T20I remains uncertain, adding to New Zealand's worries ahead of the impending Test series against Australia.

With Australia leading the three-match T20I series 2-0, the upcoming third match holds immense importance for both teams. Australia aim for a clean sweep, while New Zealand seek redemption after successive defeats. However, injuries to key players, including Devon Conway and Rachin Ravindra, have increased Kiwis' challenges.

Conway's injury occurred early in the second T20I when he sustained a blow to his left thumb when he took a sharp delivery from Adam Milne down the leg side. Despite initial concerns, the X-rays revealed 'no obvious fracture.' However, Conway's participation in the third T20I remains uncertain, casting a shadow over New Zealand's batting lineup.

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'It was pretty swollen' - Glenn Phillips on Devon Conway's injury.

The left-hander's teammate, Glenn Phillips also acknowledged Conway's absence and admitted the impact it had on New Zealand's performance.

"At the end of the day we were four down for not much and who knows Devon could have been one of those wickets, But obviously he's an integral part of our batting line up and he always gives a lot of confidence to the guys that are behind him. It was a big loss but at the end of the day wickets fell regardless, " Glenn Phillips said.

"All I know is it was pretty swollen and it wasn't worth going out there then," Phillips added.

Adam Zampa also highlighted Conway's absence as a significant factor in shaping Australia's dominance in the match.

"Reckon potentially Conway is a big out for them in that situation, that was almost the perfect start of us. Unfortunately for him, hope his thumbs alright, [but] he's the kind of guy who can bat through so that made it a lot harder for New Zealand," the leg spinner added.

New Zealand Cricket, in a statement on Conway's availability, said "He will be treated and monitored over the coming days before a decision is made on his availability for the third T20I."

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