New Zealand allrounder Suzie Bates will be sidelined for three months owing to a quadricep injury, thus not featuring in the series fixture to be held in New Zealand in February and March of 2026 against Zimbabwe. Her injury also marks the premature end to her domestic fixtures with Otago.
How the Injury Happened
The 38-year-old tore her quadriceps while fielding for Otago in the Hallyburton Johnstone Shield, the female-domestic one-day competition in New Zealand, last month. Further investigations revealed the gravity of the tear, ensuring that her recovery period was going to be prolonged.
Timelines of rehabilitation and return targets
Because of the seriousness of her injury, Suzie Bates will have to go through three months of recovery and rehabilitation. Though she won’t get to play any more matches in the domestic season due to her injury, Suzie is hoping that she can get back into international action when New Zealand takes on South Africa in the white-ball series in March.
Bates Responds to the Blow
Emphasizing her disappointment, Bates admitted “I’m gutted to be missing out this summer, I was really looking forward to another season with the [Otago] Sparks, especially the Super Smash,” Bates said in an NZC statement. “I’m determined to get back on the field with the White Ferns in March, so that’ll be my focus for now.”
Another Injury Worry for the White Ferns
Bates’ absence is the latest in a series of injury worries for the New Zealand side. Shortly before, spinner Eden Carson was ruled out for an extended period of time because of an elbow injury.
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Recent Form Prior to the Injury
Before her performances at the Hallyburton Johnstone Shield, Suzie Bates had a tough ODI World Cup in India. In five innings, she managed a mere 40 runs, averaging eight with a strike rate of 61.53, which was a tough test for her at any level.
What This Means for New Zealand
Suzie Bates’ experience and leadership qualities are very important to the New Zealand team, whether it is on the domestic front or while participating in international events. Her absence will be felt during the Zimbabwe matches, and the team will be hoping to see a return soon.
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