Suzie Bates has officially returned to an Otago domestic contract, marking her first such commitment in 20 years. The 38-year-old allrounder, who retired from international cricket following New Zealand’s group-stage exit at the T20 World Cup in June, is now set to focus entirely on the domestic circuit. Currently serving as the women's batting coach for Sunrisers Leeds in the Hundred under head coach Adi Birell, Bates will bring her extensive experience back to the Sparks. She is expected to be available for both the one-day Hallyburton Johnstone Shield and the 20-over Super Smash during the New Zealand home summer.
An Otago Cricket media release confirmed that Bates will dedicate her full attention to the side she has represented throughout her 23-year domestic career. Her previous stint as an Otago domestic player concluded in 2006. Last season, her participation was limited to a single one-day appearance due to a tendon injury sustained while fielding, which also ruled her out of the Super Smash. As a prolific international performer, Bates holds the records for being New Zealand's leading run-scorer in women's internationals and the outright leading run-scorer in women's T20Is.
The team is also welcoming new talent, as Abby Fookes, born in the same year Bates last held a contract, has signed her maiden deal with Otago. Otago women's pathway manager Sarah Tsukigawa expressed excitement about the pairing, noting that Fookes will benefit significantly from the mentorship and experience Bates provides both on and off the field.
In other domestic cricket news, Central Districts seamer Claudia Green has announced her retirement from all forms of the game. The 28-year-old, a physical education graduate and former teacher, intends to focus on her career and personal life. Additionally, Gemma Sims has stepped away from professional cricket shortly after her 25th birthday. Sims, who played for both the Central Hinds and the Wellington Blaze, reflected fondly on her time in the professional environment, highlighting the community and growth she experienced during her career.
Bates played just one one-day game for Otago in the 2025-26 domestic season after suffering a tendon injury while fielding in the Hallyburton Johnstone Shield. She subsequently missed the Super Smash competition.
Central Districts seamer Claudia Green has announced her decision to retire from domestic and international cricket. The 28-year-old toured England twice with the New Zealand team in 2021 as a reserve bowler.
