Devon Conway and Bowling Coach Andre Adams Test Positive for Covid-19, Ruled Out of Fourth T20I

New Zealand’s fourth T20I against Pakistan faces setbacks as opener Devon Conway and Bowling Coach Andre Adams test positive for Covid-19. The New Zealand Cricket (NZC) statement confirms Conway’s isolation and Chad Bowes replaces him in the squad, while Will Young steps into the playing eleven. Additionally, Adams’ absence prompts Brendon Donkers, the Canterbury Men’s Development Coach, to join the team for the upcoming match.

1. Devon Conway’s Covid-19 Positive Test:

Devon Conway, the New Zealand opener, has been ruled out of the fourth T20I against Pakistan at the Hagley Oval after testing positive for Covid-19. Despite scores of 0, 20, and 7 in the first three matches, Conway’s absence in the playing eleven paves the way for Will Young.

2. Bowling Coach Andre Adams also Tests Positive:

Bowling Coach Andre Adams joins Conway in testing positive for COVID-19 and will remain in isolation at the team’s hotel. The coaching staff undergoes adjustments as Brendon Donkers steps in to support the team in Adams’ absence.

3. New Zealand’s Unassailable Lead and Injury Woes:

Despite the setbacks, New Zealand maintains an unassailable 3-0 lead in the five-match series against Pakistan. The injury concerns continue for New Zealand, with stand-in captain Mitchell Santner previously testing positive for COVID-19 and now leading the team due to the absence of injured regular captain Kane Williamson. Williamson sidelined with a minor right hamstring strain, sustained the injury during the second T20I.

4. Mitchell Santner’s Recovery and Captaincy Role:

Mitchell Santner, initially missing the series opener due to a positive COVID-19 test, recovered and took over the captaincy in the absence of Kane Williamson. Santner’s leadership continues as New Zealand aims for a series clean sweep.

5. Injury History for Kane Williamson:

Kane Williamson’s hamstring strain adds to his injury history, with a previous ACL rupture in the same leg during IPL 2023. The Kiwi captain underwent surgery and successfully returned for the Men’s ODI World Cup in India.

–IANS