Lauren Down out of Sri Lanka ODIs with back injury; Izzy Sharp called up

The New Zealand and Sri Lanka Women's ODI series did not start well as the weather gods interrupted the first ODI. The second ODI will be taking place on Friday, March 7, and it turns out that the injury woes in the Kiwi side have still not ended.

The talented Kiwi batter Lauren Down has now joined the injury list. The 29-year-old middle order batter sustained a back injury on the first morning of the series opener and was already a replacement for Bella James, who herself was ruled out due to a quadricep strain in her right leg. As a result, the uncapped wicketkeeper-batter Izzy Sharp has been named as a replacement for Down. Notably, the youngster who was initially a part of the T20I series only, will now be traveling to Nelson for the remaining two ODIs.

In the same vein, New Zealand Women's head coach Ben Sawyer also expressed his disappointment over Down missing out on the series against Sri Lanka Women. However, he also pointed out the positive side of some young players getting a chance to represent the country and his team will surely welcome Sharp, calling it a good opportunity for her.

“We're all really disappointed for Lauren to be ruled out of the series, Unfortunately, injuries are part of the game and we wish her a speedy recovery. It does provide an exciting opportunity for Izzy to join the group in Nelson for these last two matches and we're looking forward to welcoming her, Sawyer was quoted as saying by ESPNCricinfo.

Also Read: Sophie Devine withdraws from Sri Lanka series to prioritize well being

Rowe to miss third ODI due to friend's wedding

Besides, Izzy Sharp is not the only uncapped replacement in the side. Emma Black will also be coming in as a replacement for Hannah Rowe. Quite interestingly as it may sound, Rowe will be missing the third ODI to attend the wedding of her Central Hinds teammate, Mikaela Greig, for being her 'Maid of Honour'. The other big names before this series who have been ruled out are Sophie Devine, Molly Penfold, and Hayley Jensen.