New Zealand allrounder Suzie Bates has been ruled out for three months. A severe quadricep tear sidelines the 38-year-old. The injury occurred last month while Bates was fielding for Otago.
Scans confirmed the tear’s severity. This absence impacts her domestic and international commitments. Bates targets a return for the March white-ball series against South Africa.
Injury Details Confirmed
Bates sustained the quadricep tear during the Hallyburton Johnstone Shield. She was playing for Otago in New Zealand’s women’s domestic one-day competition. The injury requires a three-month rehabilitation period, confirmed by New Zealand Cricket (NZC).
The severity of the tear was detailed in scans. This injury marks a significant setback for the veteran allrounder. ESPNcricinfo reported the specifics of her recovery timeline.
Domestic and International Impact
Bates will miss the remainder of Otago’s domestic home summer. This includes the Super Smash competition. Her absence affects the team’s lineup for key fixtures.
Internationally, Bates misses New Zealand’s home series against Zimbabwe. This series is scheduled for February-March 2026. Her role as an experienced allrounder will require a replacement in the squad.
“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. I’m determined to get back on the field with the White Ferns in March, so that’ll be my focus for now.”
Bates told ESPNcricinfo in an NZC statement.
Bates Targets Return
Bates has set her sights on the white-ball series against South Africa. This series takes place in March. Her rehabilitation program will focus on this return date.
Her recovery progress will be monitored closely by NZC medical staff. This marks a critical period for her fitness. ESPN Africa has covered other cricketers’ injury comebacks, highlighting the intensity of such recovery efforts.
Recent Form and Team Context
Prior to her injury, Bates experienced a challenging period in the ODI World Cup in India. She scored 40 runs across five innings. Her average stood at 8, with a strike rate of 61.53.
This injury follows another setback for New Zealand women’s cricket. Eden Carson is currently sidelined with a longer-term elbow absence. The White Ferns face selection decisions with two key players unavailable. Recent cricket news from ESPN Africa indicates various team challenges across different leagues.
Bates’ rehabilitation continues through February. Her next confirmed target is the white-ball series against South Africa in March.
Otago will continue its domestic season without Bates. The White Ferns will prepare for the Zimbabwe series with a revised squad.
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