England have suffered a major setback ahead of their ODI series against New Zealand, with injuries and illness disrupting their squad just days before the opener in Durham.
Left-arm seamer Mahika Gaur has been ruled out of the entire three-match series after fracturing her left foot during a training fielding session. The injury is another interruption in a stop-start international career that has already been affected by injuries and availability issues since her breakthrough.
All-rounder Alice Capsey will also miss the series opener as she recovers from illness, although she remains with the squad and is expected to return later in the series. Her absence adds to England’s reshuffled lineup at a key stage of their preparation for the upcoming T20 World Cup.
With captain Nat Sciver-Brunt already sidelined due to a calf injury, vice-captain Charlie Dean will lead the side. England have also drafted in in-form batter Maia Bouchier and Warwickshire standout Charis Pavely as cover, with the latter rewarded for a prolific domestic season.
