New Zealand’s preparations for the upcoming three-match ODI series against Sri Lanka have been dealt another blow, with seamer Hayley Jensen sidelined due to an injury sustained while warming up for the Hallyburton Johnstone Shield final.
This setback comes just as Jensen was on the verge of making her much-anticipated return to the national side after a two-year absence. The 31-year-old Otago pacer, who had an impressive domestic season with 15 wickets from 10 matches, will now be reassessed before the T20I series.
With Jensen ruled out, New Zealand have opted for left-arm spinner Fran Jonas as her replacement. The 20-year-old, who has featured in 25 ODIs, has had a steady but inconsistent run in the format, managing 17 wickets at an average of 47.70 with an economy of 4.63. In the domestic One-Day Cup, she played for Auckland Hearts, where she claimed 10 wickets in nine matches. Jonas is set to link up with the squad soon, as confirmed by head coach Ben Sawyer.
“Jensen will be reassessed before the T20I series,” Sawyer stated. “Hopefully, she can get back in time, but it will be up to the physios how she goes. Jonas will fly in tonight and join the team in the morning.”
Jensen is not the only Otago player missing from the ODI squad, with batter Bella James also has been ruled out due to a hamstring injury suffered during the Hallyburton Johnstone Shield competition. Her place has been taken by Lauren Down, adding further reshuffling to New Zealand’s squad.
Additionally, the White Ferns will be without their regular captain Sophie Devine, who has opted to take a break from cricket to focus on her well-being. This has resulted in veteran Suzie Bates stepping in as the stand-in skipper. Star all-rounder Amelia Kerr is also unavailable as she is currently representing Mumbai Indians in the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2025.
Meanwhile, pacers Lea Tahuhu, Rosemary Mair, and Molly Penfold were not considered for selection due to injuries, leaving New Zealand with a significantly altered squad.
The ODI series, which begins on March 4 in Napier, will be crucial for New Zealand as they aim to end their three-match losing streak in the format—having suffered defeats against India and Australia. Sri Lanka, on the other hand, will be eager to bounce back after their 2-1 series loss to Ireland in Belfast.
Jensen’s absence could be a big blow for the White Ferns, as the Christchurch-born pacer has been a reliable performer in ODIs, taking 28 wickets from 35 matches at an economy of 4.94. While her average of 35.78 is on the higher side, she has consistently provided breakthroughs with the new ball. Her replacement, Jonas, will be looking to make an impact despite her struggles with wicket-taking consistency.
New Zealand’s squad faces a challenging test, but with experienced players stepping up and fresh faces eager to make their mark, the series promises to be an exciting battle between the two sides.
