In a significant blow to New Zealand cricket, 38-year-old White Ferns stalwart Suzie Bates has been ruled out of action until March 2026 after sustaining a severe quadricep tear. The injury, picked up last month while fielding in a Hallyburton Johnstone Shield match, demands three months of rehabilitation and sidelines her for the remainder of Otago’s domestic home summer and the White Ferns’ February series against Zimbabwe.
Scans confirmed the severity of the tear, forcing Bates to miss key commitments, including the Super Smash, which kicks off on December 26 at Seddon Park with Northern Brave hosting Auckland Aces and Hearts. “I’m gutted to be missing out this summer, I was really looking forward to another season with the Sparks, especially the Super Smash,” Bates admitted, her disappointment palpable yet tempered by resolve.
Bates remains laser-focused on a comeback. She affirmed her commitment to rejoining the White Ferns for the T20I and ODI series against South Africa in March. “I’m determined to get back on the field with the White Ferns in March, so that’ll be my focus for now,” she said.
This setback arrives as Bates eyes a potential swansong at the 10th edition of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup, hosted by England and Wales from June 12 to July 5, 2026. With 355 international appearances across white-ball formats, Bates embodies adaptability in an era shifting from ODI dominance to T20 balance. As a dependable opener, she boasts 5,936 runs in 169 WODI innings at an average of 38.79, including 13 centuries. In T20Is, her 4,716 runs feature a highest of 124*, capped by one century, testament to her enduring class.
Veteran Suzie Bates absence tests New Zealand’s depth, handing an opportunity for the youngsters to deliver a noteworthy performance at the top of the order, ahead of a packed schedule, but her warrior spirit suggests she’ll return sharper, ready to chase one last World Cup glory.
(Quotes sourced from New Zealand Cricket Press Release)
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