CSK Faces Major Setback as Devon Conway ruled out with Thumb Injury Ahead of IPL 2024
Devon Conway faced a setback with a thumb injury during the T20I series against Australia. The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are dealing with a major blow just three weeks before their title defense in IPL 2024, as opener Devon Conway will be out of action until May. Conway, the player of the match in Chennai’s victory against Gujarat Titans in the 2023 final, underwent surgery on his left thumb last week, resulting in an almost eight-week recovery period.
The injury occurred during the T20I series against Australia, causing him to miss the ongoing Test series. The decision for surgery followed a medical consultation, ruling him out for more than half of the upcoming IPL season, set to commence on March 22 with CSK facing Royal Challengers Bangalore at the MA Chidambaram Stadium.
Conway, acquired by CSK for INR 1 crore at the Mega Auction in 2022, made an impactful IPL debut. In 23 appearances, he scored 924 runs at an average of 48.63 with nine fifties. His standout performance was last season, amassing 672 runs in 16 matches, featuring six fifties.
With Conway unavailable, CSK may explore the option of including fellow New Zealand batter Rachin Ravindra, who secured INR 1.8 crore at the recent auction. Ravindra had faced a minor injury scare in the T20I series against Australia, causing him to sit out the second match due to knee pain. However, he recovered in time to contribute in the first Test against Australia, scoring a fifty in the second innings in Wellington during the ongoing series.
As for the IPL schedule, the first 21 games have been announced, with CSK set to play four matches against Royal Challengers Bangalore, Gujarat Titans, Delhi Capitals, and Sunrisers Hyderabad, respectively. The initial two matches are home games, with the remainder to be played away. The complete schedule will be disclosed after the announcement of the Indian general election dates.
