New Zealand’s opener, Devon Conway, and bowling coach Andre Adams have both tested positive for COVID-19, resulting in their absence from the upcoming fourth T20I against Pakistan in Christchurch.
According to a statement from New Zealand Cricket (NZC), the left-handed batsman was diagnosed with the infection on Thursday and has been in isolation since. As a replacement for Conway, the team has enlisted 31-year-old Chad Bowes, who brings experience from six ODIs and 11 T20Is.
“Conway has been in isolation at the team’s Christchurch hotel after testing positive yesterday. Canterbury Kings batsman Chad Bowes will join the squad today as cover,” NZC said in a social media statement.
“Bowling coach Andre Adams has also tested positive for COVID and will also remain at the team’s hotel. Canterbury Men’s Development Coach Brendon Donkers will join the team for today’s match to help out in Adams’ place,” the board added.
Conway’s non-availability creates additional challenges for the team in the batting lineup, compounded by the earlier loss of their captain, Kane Williamson, who is sidelined for the final three T20Is due to a hamstring injury.
Prior to Conway and Adams, the team also faced the absence of left-arm spin all-rounder Mitchell Santner, who tested positive for COVID-19 and consequently missed the first T20I.
New Zealand has clinched an unbeatable 3-0 lead
New Zealand has already secured victory in the five-match T20I series, achieving substantial wins in the initial three matches. They won the first game by 46 runs and followed it up with victories by 21 runs and 45 runs in the next two.
The hosts consistently posted first-innings scores exceeding 190 on mostly flat pitches, while Pakistan struggled when faced with the challenge of chasing substantial targets in the second innings.
Despite the home team’s batting success, Conway faced difficulties in all matches. Across three innings, he managed only 27 runs at an average of 9, with a strike rate of 112.5.
His substitute, Bowes, holds a strong record in domestic T20 matches and showcased his form by scoring 85 runs off 43 balls for Canterbury against the Northern Districts in the current Super Smash tournament.
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