Fran Jonas replaces Hayley Jensen in the New Zealand ODI squad after Jensen’s hip flexor injury. Jensen’s recovery will be monitored for potential inclusion in the T20I series. Several other players are also sidelined, leading Suzie Bates to captain the team as they aim to end a losing streak against Sri Lanka.
Fran Jonas has been selected to replace the injured Hayley Jensen in the New Zealand women’s ODI squad for the series against Sri Lanka. Jensen sustained a hip flexor injury during the warm-up prior to the Hallyburton Johnstone Shield final, which has excluded her from participating in the upcoming matches. New Zealand Cricket confirmed that Jensen’s rehabilitation will be closely monitored, and her fitness status for the T20I series will be determined later.
Ben Sawyer, head coach of the White Ferns, stated that Jensen will undergo further assessments before the T20I series, expressing hope for her timely recovery, although the decision will ultimately rest with the medical staff. Jonas is expected to join the team in Napier for their first ODI scheduled on March 4.
This setback for Jensen marks another challenge as she hoped to return to the national team following a two-year hiatus. Additionally, Bella James will also miss the series due to a hamstring injury sustained during the Hallyburton Johnstone Shield, with Lauren Down stepping in as her replacement.
Moreover, New Zealand will be without Sophie Devine, who is on a break for her mental well-being. Amelia Kerr will miss the matches due to her commitments with the Mumbai Indians in the Women’s Premier League, while Lea Tahuhu, Rosemary Mair, and Molly Penfold are also sidelined due to injuries. In light of Devine’s absence, Suzie Bates will captain the squad.
The New Zealand ODI team gathered in Napier in anticipation of their first ODI against Sri Lanka, with subsequent matches scheduled in Nelson on March 7 and 9. The New Zealand side aims to break a three-match ODI losing streak, whereas Sri Lanka seeks to recover from a recent series loss to Ireland.
In conclusion, Fran Jonas’s inclusion in the ODI squad highlights New Zealand’s strategic adjustments in the face of multiple injuries. The team’s leadership and fitness management will be crucial as they prepare for their upcoming series against Sri Lanka. The absence of key players such as Jensen and Devine will challenge the squad but offers an opportunity for emerging talent to shine.
Original Source: www.lokmattimes.com
