CSK’s opener Devon Conway to miss start of IPL 2024 due to thumb surgery.

New Zealand’s opening batsman, Devon Conway, will be sidelined for the early stages of the 2024 Indian Premier League (IPL) due to a thumb injury requiring surgery. The injury occurred while he was wicketkeeping during the first T20I against Australia in Wellington, forcing him to sit out the remainder of the home series. Initial scans showed no serious damage, but further discomfort led to additional scans revealing a small fracture at the joint of his left thumb, necessitating surgical intervention. The recovery period is estimated at eight weeks, likely ruling him out for the first half of the IPL season.

However, ESPN reports suggest that Conway is anticipated to make a comeback for the latter half of the IPL campaign, as well as for the 2024 T20 World Cup representing New Zealand in the Caribbean and the USA. Conway has been a crucial player for the Chennai Super Kings, forming a formidable partnership with fellow opener Ruturaj Gaikwad. In his absence, CSK may opt to utilize Rachin Ravindra as an opening batsman, which would also open up an overseas slot or consider altering the team composition altogether.

During Conway’s absence, Will Young has filled in for him in the New Zealand playing XI for the first Test against Australia in Wellington, which resulted in a 172-run defeat for the hosts. The second and final Test of the series is set to commence on March 8 in Christchurch.