Injuries Force Changes In New Zealand Squad For T20I Series Against Sri Lanka

March 11, 2025: Injuries have forced New Zealand to make several changes to their squad ahead of their three-match T20I series against Sri Lanka. Wicketkeeper-batter Isabella Gaze, seamer Hayley Jensen, and batter Bella James have all been sidelined due to injuries. To replace them, New Zealand have called up wicketkeeper-batter Polly Inglis, left-arm seamer Bree Illing, and uncapped all-rounder Flora Devonshire for the upcoming series, as confirmed in a report by ESPNcricinfo.

Despite several injury setbacks, New Zealand managed to secure a clean sweep in the recent ODI series against Sri Lanka, winning 2-0. Inglis and Illing made their debuts in the one-dayers, while Devonshire is yet to make her international debut.

Head coach Ben Sawyer expressed his disappointment over the injuries but showed confidence in the players filling in. “We’re all feeling for Izzy, Hayley, and Bella. It’s disappointing for the team and the players, but I know those three have the determination and resilience to bounce back,” said Sawyer.

Sawyer also praised Inglis and Illing for their strong performances in the ODI series. He admired their positive intent and execution, adding that Devonshire has impressed in domestic cricket, showing all-round potential that aligns with what New Zealand is looking for in the future.

“We’ve seen a really positive start from Bree and Polly in the ODI series. They both showed great intent and execution, and I’m confident they’re ready for this next challenge. Flora has demonstrated a lot of all-round potential at the domestic level, and she is another exciting young player with qualities we’re looking for in the White Ferns,” Sawyer added.

The T20I series will begin on March 14, with the second match scheduled for March 16, both in Christchurch. The third and final match will be held on March 18 in Dunedin.

Here are the squads for both teams for the T20I series:

New Zealand Women:
Suzie Bates (c), Rosemary Mair, Eden Carson, Flora Devonshire, Maddy Green, Brooke Halliday, Bree Illing, Polly Inglis (wk), Fran Jonas, Jess Kerr, Emma McLeod, Georgia Plimmer, Izzy Sharp.

Sri Lanka Women:
Chamari Athapaththu (c), Nilakshika Silva, Kavisha Dilhari, Imesha Dulani, Inoshi Priyadharshani, Vishmi Gunaratne, Achini Kulasuriya, Sugandika Kumari, Harshitha Samarawickrama, Manudi Nanayakkara, Sachini Nisansala, Udeshika Prabodhani, Anushka Sanjeewani (wk), Kaushini Nuthyangana, Rashmika Sewwandi, Chethana Vimukthi.

As the series approaches, both teams will be hoping for strong performances despite the injury setbacks affecting New Zealand.