Otago Sparks top batsman Bella James has received her first call-up to the New Zealand squad for next week’s three-match ODI series against Australia in Wellington. However, injuries ruled out opener Georgia Plimmer and fast bowler Lea Tahuhu from the series.
James has represented Otago 137 times across multiple formats since making his debut in 2014 and has been in fine form in the ongoing one-day competition at home to Hallyburton Johnstone Shield. She ranks second on the scorers list with 293 runs in five innings and a strikeout rate of 85.17. Her lowest score in this match is 36, and she has scored a highest of 101 not out.
“We are absolutely delighted that Bella has received her first call-up to international cricket,” Sarah Tsukigawa, the team’s chief selector, said in a press release. “She has worked hard at the national level for many years and her current form at HBJ shows why she deserves this opportunity. Bella’s ability to spin 360 degrees around the ground with power is a valuable quality.”
According to a New Zealand Cricket statement, Plimmer is “unable to play cricket until next year” due to a lingering bone stress reaction in his left hip. The statement added that Tahuhu suffered a grade 2 hamstring tear and is “expected to be healthy by early January.”
“It’s a shame we don’t have Georgia or Lea in this series, but injuries have given us an opportunity to see how other players can adapt,” Tsukigawa said.
Meanwhile, seamer Rosemary Mayer returned to the ODI squad for the first time since 2022, when she withdrew from the squad that faced England due to a back injury.
It will be the first time since 2020 that the two sides will compete for the Rose Bowl Trophy, currently held by Australia.
New Zealand national team in Women’s ODI series against Australia
Sophie Devine (Captain), Susie Bates, Eden Carson, Lauren Down, Isabella Gays, Maddie Green, Brooke Holiday, Bella James, Fran Jonas, Amelia Kerr, Jess Kerr, Rosemary Meyer, Molly Penfold.
