New Zealand opener Devon Conway is set to miss the third and final Test against England as he awaits the birth of his first child.
The final test will take place in Hamilton from December 14th to 18th.
Conway, who will remain in Wellington, leaves a significant gap at the top of the order following New Zealand’s 323-run defeat in the second Test.
Middle-order batsman Mark Chapman was called up as Conway’s replacement.
Coach Gary Stead expressed full support for Conway’s decision, emphasizing the importance of family.
“Family comes first in this environment and we are all so excited that Dev and his wife Kim are welcoming their first child,” said Stead.
“Mark was recently with the Test team in India and returned in the Plunket Shield scoring an impressive 276 – so it’s a good time for him to join us,” he added.
The 33-year-old’s absence could pave the way for Will Young, who impressed during the tour to India last month by scoring 244 runs at an average of 48.40.
Despite his strong form, Young was sidelined for this series to accommodate the return of Kane Williamson.
Williamson, currently topping the batting charts with 195 runs at an average of 48.75, has demonstrated his worth since recovering from a hamstring injury.
It is pertinent to mention that England secured an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match Test series with a dominant 323-run victory over New Zealand at the Basin Reserve on Sunday.
Joe Root’s masterclass, highlighted by a creative century, combined with England’s strong bowling attack to leave New Zealand struggling despite Tom Blundell’s valiant hundred.
Root added 100 runs with captain Ben Stokes in just 79 balls before England declared 583, setting a huge target.
New Zealand’s chase faltered early, with Chris Woakes dismissing Devon Conway and Kane Williamson cheaply. Brydon Carse and others dismantled the top order, reducing the hosts to 33/3.
Blundell’s counter-attacking century, supported by Nathan Smith, provided a brief fightback but the English bowlers, led by Stokes, closed the innings for 280.
Harry Brook was named Player of the Match for his explosive contributions with the bat, scoring 123 and 55 in the two innings.
Sohail Imran is a senior reporter at Geo News.
