Auckland, 03 November (H.S.): New Zealand have suffered a major setback ahead of the opening ODI against India, with opening batter Devon Conway ruled out of the first match due to a concussion. The five-match ODI series between India and New Zealand is scheduled to begin on Wednesday, November 4, with the opening fixture set to be played in Auckland.

New Zealand Cricket said Conway collided with his teammate Matt Henry while attempting to take a catch during a training session at Eden Park on Tuesday. Both players received immediate attention from the medical staff present at the ground and subsequently underwent head injury assessments.

Following the assessment, Conway was taken to hospital for further medical evaluation, where he was diagnosed with a concussion. As a result, he will miss the first ODI against India.

According to New Zealand Cricket, both players will remain under close medical observation. However, Henry is currently considered available for selection.

New Zealand are already dealing with injury concerns involving Mark Chapman and Rachin Ravindra. Conway's unavailability just a day before the opening ODI has therefore dealt another significant blow to the team's preparations for the series.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar