New Zealand opener Devon Conway will miss the third and final Test of the home series against England, as he prepares to welcome his first child with his wife. Conway’s absence has led to Auckland Aces batter Mark Chapman being called into the squad for the Hamilton Test, which starts this Saturday.

The BlackCaps shared the news via their official social media, stating, "Squad News | Devon Conway will miss the third Tegel Test against England as he awaits the birth of his first child in Wellington this week. Conway will be replaced in the Test squad by @aucklandcricket Aces batter Mark Chapman who will join-up with the team in Hamilton ahead of Saturday's third and final Tegel Test. Coach Gary Stead said the team supported Conway's decision."

Head coach Gary Stead emphasized the team's support for Conway’s decision, expressing joy for the family:

"Family comes first in this environment and we're all really excited for Dev and his wife Kim to welcome their first child."

Conway’s replacement, Mark Chapman, has had a strong season, including a 276-run knock in New Zealand's domestic Plunket Shield, making him a solid option for the Test squad. Stead mentioned that Chapman's recent form makes this a good time for him to rejoin the side:

"Mark was with the Test squad in India recently and returned to the Plunket Shield by scoring an impressive 276 - so it's a good time for him to be joining us." the coach added.

With Conway unavailable, Will Young is expected to return to the starting XI. Young, who had a standout performance in New Zealand’s recent tour of India, was named Player of the Series, accumulating 244 runs at an average of 48.40. Though he didn’t play in the first two Tests against England, Young’s experience makes him a likely candidate for the Hamilton clash.

New Zealand squad for 3rd Test vs England

Tom Latham (captain), Tom Blundell (wicketkeeper), Mark Chapman, Jacob Duffy, Matt Henry, Daryl Mitchell, Will O'Rourke, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, Nathan Smith, Tim Southee, Kane Williamson, Will Young.