ENG vs NZ: All you need to know about the debutant centurion – Devon Conway

New Zealand’s Devon Conway grabbed all the limelight on the opening day of the first Test between England and New Zealand at the Lord’s. Making his Test debut as an opening batsman at the iconic venue, Conway celebrated the occasion with a century. Here are some interesting facts about the 29-year old right-hander.

South Africa-born cricketer

Born on 8th July 1991, the Kiwi batsman actually hails from Johannesburg, South Africa. Conway played for his provincial side, Gauteng, from the age of 18 in 2009. However, he could not cement himself in the South African domestic circuit. His inconsistencies and lack of regular opportunities saw his career in the Protea nation dwindling. He eventually left South Africa in 2017.

Migrating to New Zealand

Conway decided to try his luck in New Zealand. He sold his car and property in South Africa and shifted to the island nation to start a fresh chapter. The decision paid off, but not immediately. He joined Victoria University Cricket Club in a dual capacity as player and coach. Soon, he started making a name for himself with his runs in club cricket.

Playing for Wellington

Conway’s first break came in the 50-over format. With Tom Blundell called up for the national duty, Wellington were a player short. The batsman stepped in and made a case for himself with three solid scores. Conway then made his T20 debut for Wellington once again thanks to Blundell. The wicketkeeper-batsman fell sick ahead of a Ford Trophy game and Conway accepted the opportunity with both hands.

Dominating New Zealand domestic cricket

Devon Conway! Our Men’s Domestic Player of the Year for a second straight year and the first man to top all three domestic run-scoring charts in the same season. Awards Day 2 – https://t.co/1obJCG9fBJ #ANZNZCAwards pic.twitter.com/ZZQIeZP5k1

— BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS) April 28, 2020

It was again Blundell’s call up to the national side that helped Conway get a chance to play first-class cricket for Wellington. He then went on to plunder runs in all three formats. He topped the run charts in all three domestic competitions in the 2019-20 season. In the previous season, he had topped two of the three tournaments. In September 2020, Conway became eligible to play for New Zealand and the international call-up was not far.

International heroics

Conway made his T20I debut in November 2020 against West Indies. He impressed one and all with his consecutive knocks of 41 and 65 not out. As of now, he has played 14 T20Is and his batting average is 59.12 with four fifties. He struck an unbeaten 99 against Australia in a T20I. Conway’s ODI debut took place in March 2021 and he scored his maiden ODI century in his third appearance against Bangladesh.