A grade-two quadricep injury on her right leg has forced Bella James to miss New Zealand’s ODI series against Sri Lanka at home. She has been replaced by Lauren Down and is anticipated to need three to six weeks of rehabilitation. James’ recovery will determine whether or not she is available for the upcoming T20I series.James’ injury occurred during Otago’s match versus Central Districts in the women’s one-day Hallyburton Johnstone Shield in New Zealand. James scored 51 runs in two games during her ODI debut against Australia in Wellington last year.
She won’t be able to capitalize on her “strong start” against Sri Lanka, which upset head coach Ben Sawyer. All of us are devastated for Bella,” Sawyer remarked. It’s unfortunate that she won’t have the chance to build on her impressive December start to her international cricket career this series. However, we’re optimistic that she’ll be on track to make a comeback for the T20s.
On March 4, the three-match ODI series will start in Nelson. The next two matches will be played in Napier. From March 14 to 18, there will be three T20Is.Down has amassed 280 runs at an average of 31.11 in 10 games, making him Auckland’s third-highest scorer in the Hallyburton Johnstone Shield. Sawyer claimed that the 29-year-old, who participated in the Australia series and had played 35 ODIs, was a “strong replacement”.
“Lauren brings plenty of experience to the group,” stated Sawyer. “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.”
