NZ Batter Bella James Ruled Out Of ODI Series Against Sri Lanka Women Due To Injury

February 28, 2025: Ahead of the highly anticipated three-match ODI series against Sri Lanka, New Zealand Women’s right-hand batter Bella James has been ruled out of the series due to a grade-two quadricep strain on her right leg. The injury was sustained during Otago’s game against Central Districts in the Hallyburton Johnstone Shield, New Zealand’s women’s one-day competition.

James, who made her ODI debut against Australia in Wellington last year, was expected to play an important role in the series. She had shown promise early in her international career, scoring 51 runs across two matches during the series against Australia in December. However, the strain to her quadriceps will sideline her for a period of three to six months as she undergoes rehabilitation.

New Zealand Women’s head coach, Ben Sawyer, expressed his disappointment about James’s injury, acknowledging her strong start to her international cricket career. “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,” Sawyer said in a statement. Despite the setback, he remained hopeful that James would be ready to return for the T20 series scheduled later.

In light of James’s injury, batter Lauren Down has been called up to replace her in the squad for the upcoming ODI series. Down’s inclusion is backed by her consistent performances in the Hallyburton Johnstone Shield, where she has been a key contributor for the Auckland Hearts this season.

Sawyer praised Down’s form, stating, “Lauren brings plenty of experience to the group. 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.”

The three-match ODI series between New Zealand Women and Sri Lanka will begin on March 4 in Nelson, with the subsequent games scheduled in Napier. Following the ODI series, the two teams will face off in a three-match T20I series from March 14 to March 18.