New Zealand Women have suffered a major setback ahead of the home summer, with veteran all-rounder Suzie Bates ruled out for the next three months after sustaining a quadriceps injury. The injury will force Bates to miss New Zealand’s upcoming home series against Zimbabwe, scheduled for February–March 2026.

Bates picked up the injury while representing Otago in the Hallyburton Johnstone Shield, New Zealand’s premier domestic one-day competition for women. Subsequent scans confirmed the seriousness of the quad tear, with medical staff estimating a recovery period of around three months.

Her absence compounds New Zealand’s injury woes, coming shortly after Eden Carson was sidelined for an extended period due to an elbow injury, leaving the White Ferns depleted heading into the series.

Reacting to the news, Bates admitted her disappointment but stressed her determination to return to action as soon as possible.

“I’m gutted to be missing out this summer. I was really looking forward to another season with the Otago Sparks, especially the Super Smash. I’m determined to get back on the field with the White Ferns in March, so that will be my focus,” Bates said in a statement released by New Zealand Cricket.

One of the most experienced players in New Zealand women’s cricket, the 38-year-old has been a cornerstone of the side for over a decade. Bates has featured in 178 Women’s ODIs and 177 Women’s T20Is, scoring 5,936 runs in the ODI format at an impressive average of 38.79, while also claiming 82 wickets.

Her recovery timeline will be closely monitored as New Zealand look to manage their injury-hit squad ahead of a busy international schedule.