New Zealand player Izzy Gaze. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
The injury situation with the White Ferns isn't getting any better with three players ruled out of the T20 series against Sri Lanka.
Wicketkeeper-batter Izzy Gaze (hip flexor), pace bowler Hayley Jensen (hip flexor), and batter Bella James (quadricep) won't be available for the three matches.
Gaze, who played as a batter only during the ODI series, sprained her left hip flexor when fielding during the 3rd ODI against Sri Lanka.
Assessments have also determined that Jensen and James' injuries, which ruled them out of the ODI series, require further rehabilitation before returning to play.
Wicketkeeper-batter Polly Inglis and left-arm seamer Bree Illing, who made their international debuts during last week's ODI series, will replace Gaze and Jensen for the T20I series, while 22-year-old Central Hinds all-rounder and former New Zealand A representative Flora Devonshire receives her maiden call up, replacing James.
Head coach Ben Sawyer said Illing and Inglis were ready for T20 cricket.
"They both showed great intent and execution and I'm confident they're ready to take on this next challenge."
Sawyer said Devonshire was an exciting prospect.
"Flora's shown a lot of all-round potential at the domestic level and is another exciting young player that has qualities consistent with what we're looking for in the White Ferns."
New Zealand won the ODI series 2-0.
Sophie Devine and Amelia Kerr were unavailable for the tour by Sri Lanka.
1st T20I - Friday 14 March - 7.15pm Hagley Oval, Christchurch.
2nd T20I - Sunday 16 March - 10.15am Hagley Oval, Christchurch.
3rd T20I - Tuesday 18 March - 10.15am University of Otago Oval, Dunedin.
