New Zealand have suffered a huge blow ahead of their opening ODI against India after Devon Conway has been ruled out of the opening clash at Eden Park on November 4 due to a concussion suffered during a fielding exercise. The incident occurred on Tuesday when Conway had a collision with Matt Henry, who was attempting to take a catch.

Conway was rushed to hospital and scans showed he suffered a concussion, meaning he cannot play in the match in Auckland. Henry passed concussion tests and will be fit to play, but NZC stated he will still undergo monitoring.

Tim Seifert poised to replace Devon Conway

The New Zealand squad named on November 2 announced Tim Seifert as the preferred replacement for Conway in the playing XI for the opening match of the series.

Henry passed his concussion tests, and Santner confirmed Seifert would be replacing Conway directly.

“I guess Tim will be our backup batter; it will probably be a straight swap there if Dev isn't there. That's a shame because he's obviously a very good one-dayer but was just waiting for his opportunity in the T20 series.

New Zealand Cricket confirmed both players would continue to be monitored.

“Both players will be monitored, and their availability for the ODI series against India will be advised in due course.” (via Cricbuzz).

New Zealand hit with injury worries

Devon Conway's injury means New Zealand have been hit with more fitness issues ahead of the three-match ODI series. Mark Chapman has been ruled out for the whole series due to a hamstring issue, and Rachin Ravindra is also unable to play due to a shoulder injury.

Henry had just been named in the squad after missing the last three T20Is of the series against India. The pace-attack had been recovering from a partial tear to his right quad. He now needs to pass his concussion tests.

Although Henry is in contention to play in the first ODI, Conway's availability is still uncertain. NZC have not given any indication of how long Conway is expected to be out for. His return will depend on further medical assessments.