New Zealand allrounder Suzie Bates has been ruled out for at least three months after suffering a quadricep injury, sidelining her from the upcoming home series against Zimbabwe in February-March 2026. The 38-year-old will also miss the remainder of the domestic season for Otago, including the Super Smash, as she undergoes rehabilitation.
Bates sustained the injury last month while fielding for Otago during the Hallyburton Johnstone Shield, New Zealand’s women’s domestic one-day competition. Scans later confirmed the severity of the tear, prompting New Zealand Cricket (NZC) to rule her out for an extended period. Her absence compounds recent injury concerns for the White Ferns, with Eden Carson also facing a lengthy spell on the sidelines due to an elbow issue.
“I’m gutted to be missing out this summer,” Bates said in a statement released by NZC. “I was really looking forward to another season with the Sparks, especially the Super Smash. I’m determined to get back on the field with the White Ferns in March, so that’ll be my focus for now.”
Bates is targeting a return during the white-ball series against South Africa in March, which would be a timely boost for New Zealand as they rebuild momentum. Her leadership and experience remain crucial, particularly for a side navigating transition and injury setbacks.
The injury comes on the back of a challenging ODI World Cup in India, where Bates struggled for form, scoring 40 runs in five innings. While the numbers were uncharacteristic, her influence on and off the field remains undiminished, and New Zealand will be hoping her recovery restores one of the game’s most dependable campaigners to full fitness ahead of a busy international calendar.
