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Photograph: (Source: ESPN Cric Info)
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The untimely injury to wicketkeeper-batter Bella James has hampered New Zealand's preparations for the forthcoming ODI series against Sri Lanka. The 26-year-old has been ruled out due to a grade-two quadricep strain on her right leg, which is expected to require three to six weeks of rehabilitation. James's involvement in the upcoming T20I series is still up in the air, but Lauren Down has been appointed as her replacement.
James was hurt when Otago played Central Districts in the women's one-day Hallyburton Johnstone Shield in New Zealand. She hit 51 runs in two games on her ODI debut against Australia in Wellington last year. Ben Sawyer, the head coach, talked candidly about losing James for the ODI series.
Injury Blow for Bella James:
In a statement, Sawyer said, "We're all gutted for Bella. She had a strong start to her international cricket career in December, so it's a shame she doesn't get the opportunity to back that up in this series. But we're hopeful she'll be tracking to return for the T20s. The three-match T20I series will be played from March 14 to March 18."
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— NationPress (@np_nationpress) February 28, 2025
Lauren Down Takes Bella James Place for Sri Lanka ODIs pic.twitter.com/vFP9UD0a3p
With 280 runs in ten games at an average of 31.11, Down is now Auckland's third-highest scorer in the Hallyburton Johnstone Shield. Sawyer claimed that the 29-year-old, who participated in the Australia series and has played 35 ODIs, was a "strong replacement." With 280 runs in 10 games at an average of 31.11, Down is now Auckland's third-highest run-scorer in the ongoing Hallyburton Johnstone Shield.
Sawyer further added, “Lauren brings plenty of experience to the group. She’s been a key contributor for the Hearts this season and we’re pleased she’ll get the opportunity to take that form into this series."
On March 4, the ODI series will kick off in Nelson, with matches to follow in Napier. The dates of the three-match T20I series are set for March 14–18.
Watch this space for more cricket news.
