Cricket
ESPNcricinfo staff 4y

Shoulder injury rules Suzie Bates out of remainder of ODI series against Australia

NZ Women in Australia 2020-21, Cricket

New Zealand will have to try and bounce back from their heavy defeat in the first ODI against Australia without the experience of Suzie Bates, who has been ruled out of the remainder of the series after injuring her right shoulder in the outfield.

Bates sustained the injury late in Australia's chase when she dived to try and prevent a boundary. She underwent an MRI scan on Sunday but further consultation will be needed to determine the full extent of the injury and whether it impacts her availability for the start of the WBBL with the Adelaide Strikers later this month.

New Zealand's batting resources will be further stretched by the continued absence of Lauren Down, who picked up an elbow injury during the second T20I although it is hoped she may be available for the final ODI on Wednesday.

"Losing Suzie for the remaining two matches is obviously a big loss. Anytime you lose a player with well over 100 ODIs of experience and a wealth of runs, it's hard to replace them," New Zealand coach Bob Carter said.

"Lauren's injury, while minor, is unfortunately keeping her on the sideline for the time being. She's been showing plenty of promise in the nets and we remain hopeful she will play a part in this series."

Bates, who will remain with the squad, has struggled to find her best form in Australia with scores of 33, 22 and 3 in the T20Is before falling for 14 in the first ODI when she picked out deep midwicket off a full toss by Georgia Wareham.

"Suzie has undergone scans and we are now in consultation with New Zealand Cricket's medical advisors to determine the best course of action," New Zealand physio Zoe Russell said. "At this stage, Suzie has commenced rehabilitation but won't play a part in the final two ODIs."

New Zealand were convincingly beaten in the opening match by seven wickets, Australia having more than 16 overs to spare when they knocked off the target. The visitors have not held the Rose Bowl trophy since 1999 and must win on Monday to keep the series alive.

Australia are currently on a run of 19 consecutive ODI victories and if they whitewash this series will equal the world record of 21 held by Ricky Ponting's 2003 side.

Allrounder Ash Gardner sustained a finger injury when taking the catch that removed Bates and spent the majority of the innings off the field but is expected to be available for Monday's match.

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