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New Zealand have been hit by several injury concerns ahead of their five-match ODI series against India, with Devon Conway, Rachin Ravindra and Mark Chapman among the players affected. Matt Henry's fitness is also being monitored, while Zak Foulkes, Will O'Rourke and Ben Sears remain unavailable as they recover from their respective injuries.
The concerns come at an important stage for the Black Caps, who are preparing to host India in a series beginning on November 4. With multiple players facing fitness setbacks, New Zealand will have to manage their combinations carefully as they look to compete against a strong Indian side.
India and New Zealand set for high-profile ODIs after thrilling T20I series
The ODI series follows an entertaining five-match T20I contest, which India won 3-2. The visitors took a commanding 3-0 lead after winning the first three matches in Christchurch and Wellington. New Zealand then fought back, winning the fourth T20I in Auckland by 87 runs before completing a seven-wicket victory in Hamilton in the final match.
India's early dominance and New Zealand's late response have set up an interesting contest in the 50-over format. The first ODI will be played in Auckland on November 4, followed by the second in Wellington on November 7 and the third in Hamilton on November 10.
The final two matches are scheduled for Mount Maunganui on November 13 and 15. However, the hosts will enter the series with several selection questions because of the growing injury list.
New Zealand suffer 7 injury blows; here's the full list
Devon Conway
Conway is ruled out of the opening ODI after suffering a concussion in a collision with Matt Henry during a training session at Eden Park. He was taken to hospital for assessment following the incident.
Rachin Ravindra
Ravindra has been ruled out of the entire ODI series while recovering from a right shoulder injury. He sustained a dislocation during a promotional shoot and has not recovered sufficiently to field at full capacity. New Zealand are avoiding unnecessary risks with the upcoming Test series also in mind.
Mark Chapman
Chapman will also miss the full series because of a left hamstring injury sustained during the European T20 Premier League. A recent MRI indicated that he needs another two weeks of rehabilitation before returning to full fitness.
Zak Foulkes
Foulkes has been unavailable for selection while recovering from a hip flexor injury. The setback has kept the fast-bowling all-rounder out of New Zealand's plans for the India ODI assignment.
Matt Henry
Henry's availability for the opening match is uncertain. He missed the final three T20Is after suffering a low-grade tear in his right quadriceps. He has joined the ODI squad, but the team management will assess his readiness before deciding on his participation. The training-ground collision with Conway has added another concern.
Will O'Rourke
O'Rourke is continuing his recovery from a calf injury and was not considered for selection. His absence reduces New Zealand's fast-bowling options.
Ben Sears
Sears is also unavailable as he rehabilitates a persistent ankle injury. The pacer remains outside the squad while working towards his return.
New Zealand have made adjustments to cover some of the absences. Tim Seifert is now available for the full series, Henry Nicholls has joined for the first three ODIs, and Dean Foxcroft will be part of the squad for the final two matches. Matt Fisher has also been retained as an additional bowling option, while Henry's fitness will be assessed.
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