New Zealand cricket suffered a blow with the announcement that opener Georgia Plimmer will be unavailable for the remainder of 2024. A bone stress reaction in her groin has ruled her out of the upcoming home ODI series against Australia and domestic competitions.
Pain in India Leads to Diagnosis
Plimmer’s injury came to light during New Zealand’s ODI series in India last month. The 20-year-old experienced discomfort in her left hip joint, prompting medical investigations upon her return. An MRI scan and specialist review confirmed the severity of the condition.
The recovery plan? Six weeks of rest and rehabilitation before easing into high-speed running in January. While her rehabilitation timeline is optimistic, the injury has dashed her chances of continuing her impressive form from earlier in the year.
Missing Crucial Matches
The timing couldn’t have been worse for Plimmer or her team. The December ODI series against Australia is always a marquee event. Her absence also sidelines her from New Zealand’s domestic competitions—the Hallyburton Johnstone Shield and the Super Smash.
Ben Sawyer, the head coach of New Zealand’s women’s team, expressed his disappointment:
“We’re really gutted for this to happen to Georgia when she’s at the top of her game. She’s certainly a loss for us heading into an important series against Australia.”
A Stellar Year Cut Short
Plimmer’s contributions in 2024 were nothing short of remarkable. During the T20 World Cup, she was New Zealand’s second-highest run-scorer with 150 runs across six innings. She followed it up with consistent performances in India, including scores of 25, 41, and 39 in a tough ODI series that New Zealand narrowly lost 2-1.
Her rise in form was one of the bright spots for New Zealand cricket this year, and her absence leaves a void at the top of the batting order.
What’s Next for New Zealand?
The immediate challenge for New Zealand is finding a replacement for Plimmer. The series against Australia is expected to be fiercely competitive, and losing a dependable batter like Plimmer adds to the team’s challenges.
For Plimmer, the focus is now on recovery. Coach Sawyer highlighted her determination to return stronger:
“Georgia’s determined to rehab well and get back as soon as she can. We’re wishing her a smooth recovery.”
While cricket fans will miss seeing Plimmer in action this year, the hope is that her rehab goes smoothly and she’s back to her best in 2025.
