Otago batter/wicketkeeper Bella James has been called up for a possible international debut with the White Ferns, as they prepare to face archrivals Australia in a one-day series this week.
James, 25, has been a stalwart of the NZ domestic competitions, representing the Sparks 137 times since her 2014 debut. She currently sits atop Hallyuburton Johnstone Shield scoring with 293 runs after five one-day matches, including a matwchwinning century against Wellington Blaze last month.
She celebrated her selection with a 102-run unbeaten opening stand, alongside Ferns legend Suzie Bates, that led Otago home over Northern Districts on Saturday. James contributed 47 runs and Bates 51.
James replaces Georgia Plimmer, one of the stars of New Zealand's T20 World Cup triumph last month, who is sidelined by a bone stress reaction.
"We’re really excited to give Bella her first call-up to international cricket," said White Ferns selector Sarah Tsukigawa. "She’s been working hard at the domestic level for many years and her current form in HBJ shows why she deserves this opportunity.
"Bella’s ability to hit 360 degrees around the ground with power is a valuable quality."
The NZ women will also take on the Aussies without veteran fast-bowler Lea Tahuhu, who tore a hamstring in domestic play last month. She has been replaced by Rosemary Mair, who was rested after the World Cup, as part of her recovery from a long-term back injury.
"It's exciting to be introducing another batter into the White Ferns mix," said Tsukigawa. "We see that if there can be more competition for roles, that will continue to raise the quality of the group.
"We're gutted to not have Georgia or Lea for this series, but injuries do create opportunities to explore how other players could fit in."
The three-match series begins Thursday at Wellington's Basin Reserve.
White Ferns: Sophie Devine (capt), Suzie Bates, Eden Carson, Lauren Down, Izzy Gaze, Maddy Green, Brooke Halliday, Bella James, Fran Jonas, Jess Kerr, Melie Kerr, Rosemary Mair, Molly Penfold
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