EXCLUSIVE: Injured Devon Conway Ruled Out of First Test Against Australia

New Zealand opener Devon Conway will miss the first Test against Australia due to a left thumb injury sustained during the T20I series. Henry Nicholls has been drafted into the squad as a replacement, but Will Young is expected to fill Conway's spot at the top of the order. Conway's injury occurred during the second T20I in Auckland, leading to his exclusion from the third match. While initial scans showed no fracture, further examination raised concerns about the thumb, prompting ongoing assessment for treatment and recovery. Coach Gary Stead expressed disappointment at Conway's absence, noting his significance as a top-order batsman. Meanwhile, all-rounder Rachin Ravindra, who experienced knee soreness, is cleared to play. Considering the pitch conditions at Basin Reserve, New Zealand may include Scott Kuggeleijn alongside their seamers. Stead sees the series as an opportunity for New Zealand to rectify their Test record against Australia and showcase their prowess as the current leaders in the World Test Championship standings. #SPORTSGOSSIP