New Zealand Draft in Bella James for Zimbabwe ODIs as Plimmer Ruled Out

New Zealand have called up Bella James for the upcoming ODI series against Zimbabwe after Georgia Plimmer was ruled out with a shoulder injury.

Plimmer sustained the injury during training in the recent T20I series against Zimbabwe, which New Zealand swept 3-0. She missed the second and third T20Is and has now been sidelined for the three-match ODI leg as well.

James, who was drafted in as batting cover ahead of the third T20I, will remain with the squad as Plimmer’s replacement. She made her ODI debut against Australia in December 2024 and has featured in two ODIs so far. James was also part of New Zealand’s squad at last year’s ODI World Cup but did not play a match.

Head coach Ben Sawyer described Plimmer as a key presence at the top of the order and acknowledged her absence as a setback, while backing James’ experience in domestic List A cricket to ensure a smooth transition into the side.

Offspinner Nensi Patel and wicketkeeper-batter Izzy Sharp, both yet to make their ODI debuts, have also been named in the squad. Patel impressed in the T20I series with a five-wicket haul, while Sharp contributed unbeaten knocks of 18 and 22.

The three ODIs, starting March 5, form part of the 2025-2029 ICC Women’s Championship cycle, with New Zealand beginning their campaign against Zimbabwe.

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