New Zealand captain Sophie Devine has been ruled out of the fifth and final T20I against England due to a quad injury. The injury occurred during the fourth T20I while she was bowling. A scan confirmed that Devine has sustained a grade one quad strain, requiring a short period of rehabilitation.
Devine will remain with the squad in Wellington and undergo a rehabilitation program. Her availability for the three-match ODI series starting April 1 will be determined after monitoring her progress.
Devine’s replacement
In Devine’s absence, Georgia Plimmer has been called up as her replacement. Plimmer was part of the New Zealand A squad playing against England A and will now join the senior squad for the final T20I.
New Zealand head coach Ben Sawyer expressed disappointment for Devine but emphasized the focus on making her available for as much of the ODI series as possible. The ODI series holds importance for New Zealand as ICC ODI Championship points are at stake.
Devine has been a key performer for New Zealand in the ongoing series, scoring 77 runs in two innings at a strike rate of 150.98 and picking up four wickets. Her absence will be felt, but New Zealand remains hopeful for her quick recovery.
Devine, along with Amelia Kerr, had missed the first T20I of the series due to their participation in the Women’s Premier League in India. Plimmer and Mikaela Greig were called up to the squad for that game.
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