New Zealand will bring Tim Seifert in to replace Devon Conway in Sunday’s T20 World Cup final against Australia after the wicketkeeper-batsman broke his right hand with a frustrated punch following his dismissal against England.
Conway, who hit a 38-ball 46 in Wednesday’s semifinal win, was sore and sorry after being ruled out of both the World Cup decider and the following tour of India.
“While it’s not the smartest thing he’s done there’s certainly an element of bad luck in the injury,” New Zealand coach Gary Stead said. “He’s certainly remorseful around it, it’s an honest mistake he’s made.
“He knows it’s having an impact on our team as well but that will provide an opportunity for someone else to come into the side and step up on the biggest stage now.
“Sometimes strange things happen and we find heroes in other places as well.”
Conway’s injury is a needless headache for Stead and captain Kane Williamson as New Zealand prepare for their first World T20 final against an Australian team with their tails up after beating Pakistan in Thursday’s semi-final.
Seifert has not played a match since the Black Caps were well beaten by Pakistan in their tournament opener over two weeks ago.
