IND-W vs NZ-W: Amelia Kerr ruled out of series, most of WBBL

New Zealand women's team faced a major blow as star all-rounder Amelia Kerr has been ruled out of the remaining part of the ODI series against India due to a left quadricep tear. The injury, sustained during the series opener in Ahmedabad, has put doubts over her participation in the upcoming Women's Big Bash League (WBBL).

The 23-year-old underwent scans on Friday morning, which revealed a grade-one quadricep tear that requires approximately three weeks of rehabilitation. Kerr's absence deals a double blow, affecting both her national team duties and the Sydney Sixers stint in the WBBL.

Kerr had an exceptional performance in the first ODI against India. Despite ending up on the losing side, she claimed 4 for 42 with the ball and scored an unbeaten 25 off 23 balls.

Also Read: Clinical India pick 59-run win over New Zealand to go 1-0 up

We're really gutted for Melie: Ben Sawyer

This performance followed her brilliant showing at the recently concluded Women's T20 World Cup 2024, where she emerged as the Player of the Tournament with 15 wickets. New Zealand head coach Ben Sawyer opened up on Kerr's injury.

"We're really gutted for Melie. Injuries are always a challenging time for a player and we know how disappointed she is to not be able to play these games. Everyone knows how much of an integral part of this team Melie is so we'll certainly miss her but we're wishing her a speedy recovery," Sawyer said as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.

As a platinum-category signing for the Sydney Sixers in the WBBL, Kerr's absence could see her miss up to eight of the team's ten league games, significantly affecting their campaign which begins this Sunday.

The setback also has potential implications for New Zealand's World Cup qualification hopes. Currently placed sixth in the Women's ODI Championship table, the White Ferns are pursuing a top-six finish to secure direct qualification for the 2025 ODI World Cup. The sides have crucial matches against Australia in December.

The New Zealand Cricket Board has announced that Kerr will return home on Sunday to commence her rehabilitation program, with no immediate replacement named in the ODI squad for the remaining matches scheduled for October 27 and 29 in Ahmedabad.