The ODI series between New Zealand and Sri Lanka, set to kick off on March 4 at McLean Park in Napier, has hit an early roadblock for the home side. Promising Otago Sparks batter Bella James, who had a stellar start to her international career last December, will be missing from the White Ferns ODI squad courtesy of a grade two quadricep strain in her right leg. This unfortunate injury, sustained during a recent Hallyburton Johnstone Shield (HJS) game, necessitates a rehabilitation period of three to six weeks.
The 26-year-old wicket-keeper batter Bella James made her international debut in an ODI on 21st December 2024, in the 2nd game of their ODI series against Australia at Basin Reserve in Wellington. She has scored 51 runs in a couple of innings with the bat for her side in the format so far. It is a missed opportunity for her to build on her impressive debut series for New Zealand.
The injury came at a crucial time when she was looking forward to reinforcing her position in the squad. “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 this series. But we’re hopeful she’ll be tracking to return for the T20s,” said head coach Ben Sawyer, expressing disappointment but also hope for James’ recovery in time for the T20I series against Sri Lanka.
Filling the void left by James is none other than the experienced Lauren Down, whose recent form in the HBJ Shield has been nothing short of impressive. Down averages 31 for the season and is the third-highest run scorer for Auckland Hearts.
“Lauren brings plenty of experience to the group. She’s been a key contributor for the Hearts this season and we’re pleased she’ll get the opportunity to take that form into this series,” her inclusion brings a wealth of experience to the squad, and coach Sawyer is optimistic about her ability to take her form into the upcoming series.
The experienced 29-year-old middle order batter Lauren Down has scored 486 runs at a strike rate of 62.06 in 31 innings, which includes three half-centuries in the format for her side so far, since making her international debut on 4th March 2018 in the format against West Indies, in the first ODI at Bert Sutcliffe Oval, Lincoln.
While Bella James’ absence is undoubtedly a setback, the White Ferns are preparing to assemble in Napier on Sunday, ready to face Sri Lanka. The focus now shifts to ensuring that James recovers in time for the T20I series, while Lauren Down will be keen to seize her opportunity and help steer the team to victory in the ODI series.
As the White Ferns prepare for the first ODI on March 4, they will be doing so without Bella James, but with the seasoned Lauren Down stepping into the fray.
With a balanced squad and a clear strategy, the team is poised to overcome this hurdle and put up a strong performance against Sri Lanka. Let’s watch in anticipation as these new crops of talented cricketers from both sides take to the pitch, ready to showcase their talent and determination.
(Quotes sourced from New Zealand Cricket Press Release)
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