A blow for the White Ferns! The T20I series between New Zealand Women and England Women faces a setback as the hosts’ captain, Sophie Devine, will miss the concluding match due to a quad injury. Devine sustained the injury while bowling during the fourth T20I, which England Women won to take a commanding 3-1 lead in the series.
Devine’s Absence a Challenge for New Zealand Women
Despite her standout performance in the third T20I, where her brilliant knock of 60 runs off 37 balls secured a crucial victory for New Zealand Women, England wrestled back control, clinching the series in the fourth match. Devine’s injury adds another layer of challenge for the White Ferns, as scans revealed a grade one quad strain, necessitating a brief rehabilitation period.
Devine to Undergo Rehabilitation, Availability for ODIs Uncertain
While ruled out of the final T20I, Devine will remain with the New Zealand Women’s squad in Wellington to undergo rehabilitation. Her availability for the upcoming three-match ODI series against England Women will depend on her recovery progress. In her absence, Georgia Plimmer has been called up as a replacement for the fifth and final T20I.
Coach Sawyer Hopes for Devine’s Return, Eyes on ODI Series
Head coach Ben Sawyer expressed his disappointment at Devine’s injury but remains hopeful for her swift recovery ahead of the crucial ODI series. With the T20I series already decided in England’s favor, the focus for the White Ferns shifts to regrouping for the final match and carrying some momentum into the ODIs, which hold significant weight in the ICC Women’s Championship points race. A strong performance in the ODIs is vital for New Zealand Women to solidify their position in the championship race.
