BJ Watling in doubt for New Zealand opener against West Indies

BJ Watling picked up a hamstring injury in the opening round of New Zealand’s List-A competition

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New Zealand wicketkeeper BJ Watling is a doubt for the first Test between New Zealand and West Indies.

Watling picked up a hamstring injury in the opening round of New Zealand’s List-A competition. If he is unavailable then Tom Blundell will take the gloves for the seies opener in Hamilton.

Speaking at a pre-series press conference, New Zealand head coach Gary Stead said: "He was being assessed as I walked across over here. So first time we've managed to get the physio in front of him. So once I hear more from that I will know but I'm guessing tomorrow we'll make the call of whether he's a chance or not."

The Blackcaps have called up South Africa-born Devon Conway as cover. However, a debut for the 29-year-old is unlikely as Will Young impressed in a tour game for New Zealand A.

"You can correct me if I'm wrong but I think Will has scored four or five [New Zealand] A centuries now in the last couple of years," Stead added. "Devon's obviously done what he's done in domestic cricket and put a lot of runs on the board as well."

Conway was the highest run-scorer in the Plunket Shield last season with 701 runs – including a spectacular 327 not out. He is also the competition’s highest run-scorer so far this season with 410 runs.

In the recent T20 series between the two countries, Conway impressed, scoring 106 runs including 65 not out in the second game.

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