NZ vs SL 2025: Bella James ruled out of ODIs with quadricep strain on right leg, replacement announced
"We're all gutted for Bella," said Head coach Ben Sawyer.
New Zealand's preparations for the upcoming ODI series against Sri Lanka have taken a hit with the unfortunate injury to wicket-keeper-batter Bella James. The 26-year-old has been ruled out due to a grade-two quadricep strain on her right leg, requiring an estimated three-to-six weeks of rehabilitation. Lauren Down has been named as her replacement, while James’s participation in the subsequent T20I series remains uncertain.
James sustained the injury during New Zealand’s premier women's one-day competition, Hallyburton Johnstone Shield, playing for Otago in their game against Central Districts. Having made her ODI debut against Australia in Wellington last year, James hammered 51 runs in two matches. Head coach Ben Sawyer opened up about losing James for the ODI series.
"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," Sawyer said in a statement.
Lauren brings plenty of experience to the group: Ben Sawyer
The White Ferns quickly named Lauren Down as James’ replacement. The 29-year-old has been featured in 35 ODIs for New Zealand. She was also part of the squad during the Australia series and has been in good form in the domestic circuit. In the ongoing Hallyburton Johnstone Shield, Down is currently Auckland’s third-highest run-scorer, with 280 runs in ten games at an average of 31.11.
"Lauren brings plenty of experience to the group. She's been a key contributor for the [Auckland] Hearts this season, and we're pleased she'll get the opportunity to take that form into this series," the head coach added.
The ODI series is set to begin on March 4 in Nelson, followed by matches in Napier. The three-match T20I series is scheduled from March 14 to March 18.
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