Devon Conway to miss third Test against England for birth of his first child

New Zealand opener Devon Conway will miss the third Test of the three-match series against England due to the birth of his first child, New Zealand Cricket (NZC) announced on December 9 (Monday).

The Kiwis, who have already lost the series after losing the first two Tests in Christchurch and Wellington by eight wickets and 323 runs, respectively, will look to salvage some pride with a win in the third Test, starting December 14 at Hamilton.

Gary Stead, the Blackcaps coach, was happy for Conway and showed support to the South Africa-born. The batter stayed back in Wellington, where his team lost the series. 

"Family comes first in this environment, and we're all excited for Dev and his wife Kim to welcome their first child,” Stead said. 

Mark Chapman, who was with the New Zealand side that whitewashed India in India in October 2024, has been drafted into the side as Conway’s replacement. Will Young, who missed the first two Tests even after being named Player of the Series in India, will finally get a chance to play in the third Test.   

Regarding Chapman’s addition, Stead said, "Mark was with the Test squad in India recently and returned to the Plunket Shield by scoring an impressive 276 - so it's a good time for him to be joining us."

After losing the series already, New Zealand might not be looking to make many changes. The only possible change, apart from Young replacing Conway, could be Mitchell Santner being drafted into the playing 11 at the expense of one of the pacers — most probably William O’Rourke. 

Though Tim Southee has been the worst-performing pace bowler for the hosts, since the 100-plus Tests veteran has decided to quit at the end of the series, he will most likely get his farewell in Hamilton.  

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