The New Zealand women’s cricket team has been dealt a tough blow ahead of their upcoming ODI World Cup match against South Africa on October 6. Flora Devonshire, who was set to make her World Cup debut, will now miss out due to an injury sustained during training. The 23-year-old all-rounder suffered a laceration to her left hand, which could keep her sidelined for 2 to 3 weeks, according to reports from Cricbuzz.
Injury Blow for Flora Devonshire
Devonshire’s injury marks a heartbreaking end to her World Cup journey before it even began. The young all-rounder, who has shown great promise, was eager to make her mark on the international stage. However, the severity of her injury has forced her to return home, and she will not be able to feature in New Zealand’s campaign in the tournament. This setback is particularly difficult as Devonshire had worked tirelessly to secure a place in the squad.
Head coach Ben Sawyer expressed sympathy for Devonshire’s misfortune, acknowledging the hard work she put in to earn her spot. “We’re all feeling for Flora. She worked hard to earn her spot in this squad, and it’s a real shame her tournament is ending early,” Sawyer said.
Hannah Rowe Replaces Flora Devonshire
In light of Devonshire’s injury, New Zealand has called up experienced fast-bowling all-rounder, Hannah Rowe, as her replacement. Rowe, who has 60 ODI appearances for the White Ferns, brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the team. While Rowe’s skill set is different from Devonshire’s — as she bowls fast compared to Devonshire’s spin — her all-round abilities and familiarity with subcontinent conditions will be valuable to the team.
“We’re pleased to be able to call up a senior player in Hannah Rowe. Hannah’s obviously not a like-for-like replacement for Flora, but she offers an all-round skillset and has experience in subcontinent conditions,” Sawyer added.
New Zealand, who are the reigning T20 World Champions, will be hoping to bounce back from their defeat in the tournament opener against Australia. The White Ferns are now set to face a South African side also struggling after a heavy loss to England. Both teams will be eager to secure their first points of the World Cup.
New Zealand’s clash with South Africa is scheduled to take place in Indore, though Rowe is expected to join the squad after October 6. As the White Ferns look to regroup and refocus, they will have to make do without Rowe for their upcoming match.
The team will be aiming to lift their spirits and come out strong against the Proteas, as both teams will be desperate for a win to keep their World Cup hopes alive.
