New Zealand opener Suzie Bates has been ruled out of action for three months as she sustained a quadriceps tear, which keeps her on the sidelines through the home summer.

Bates suffered an injury last month while fielding during a Shield match. The scans have revealed the severity of the tear; the former skipper will require three months of rehabilitation.

The recovery timeline, therefore, ruled out Bates for Otago’s remainder in the Super Smash 2025/26 and the home series against Zimbabwe in February.

Suzie Bates will be aiming for her return in the white-ball series against South Africa. Reacting to the news, Suzie Bates admitted her disappointment but remained focused on recovery.

“I’m gutted to be missing out this summer, I was really looking forward to another season with the Sparks, especially the Super Smash,” said Suzie Bates. “I’m determined to get back on the field with the White Ferns in March, so that’ll be my focus for now.”

The White-Ferns are set to play a three-match ODI and T20I series against Zimbabwe, but they will have to do so without one of their most experienced players.

If the rehabilitation goes as planned, Suzie Bates is expected to be back for the South Africa tour, where New Zealand are scheduled to play both T20I and ODI series.

The tour could be crucial for the White Ferns as they begin preparations for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026, which begins in June.

Suzie Bates made her last international appearance during the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025.

New Zealand finished sixth with just one win in their seven games. Suzie Bates scored only 40 runs in five outings at a strike rate of 61.53.

New Zealand and Zimbabwe will play their T20I and ODI series starting February 25 at Seddon Park, Hamilton.