Seifert to open for New Zealand after Conway ruled out with concussion

Devon Conway will miss New Zealand's first ODI against India after being diagnosed with concussion sustained in a training-ground accident, New Zealand Cricket confirmed on Tuesday. The batter collided with teammate Matt Henry while attempting an aerial catch during the team's practice session at Eden Park ahead of the series opener scheduled for Wednesday.

Conway was taken to hospital for examination, which confirmed the concussion diagnosis and ruled him out of the match. Tim Seifert has been named as his replacement in the squad. New Zealand skipper Mitchell Santner acknowledged the severity of the incident at the pre-match press conference, noting that while Henry appeared to be managing well after his own concussion assessment, Conway's situation was more serious.

"Dev's been rushed off-premises. It didn't look too good, actually, that collision," Santner said. The New Zealand captain confirmed that Henry, despite also going through concussion protocols following the incident, was doing okay and available for selection.

The injury represents a significant blow to the New Zealand batting lineup ahead of the ODI series against India. Conway has been a key player for the Black Caps in recent international matches. His absence will provide an opportunity for Seifert to make an impact in the opening encounter at Eden Park.