Suzie Bates will return to the province for the first time since 2006 after securing a domestic contract with Otago. After New Zealand’s group-stage loss at the T20 World Cup in June, the 38-year-old all-rounder ended her international career. She will now focus solely on the Sparks during the 20-over Super Smash and the one-day Hallyburton Johnstone Shield during the New Zealand home summer.
Suzie’ prior domestic season with Otago was cut short. She only made one one-day appearance in 2025–2026 due to a tendon injury she suffered while fielding during the Hallyburton Johnstone Shield, and she missed the whole Super Smash campaign that followed.
As head coach Adi Birell’s women’s batting coach, she has been supporting Sunrisers Leeds’ coaching system in the women’s hundred away from the domestic circuit. Sarah Tsukigawa, manager of the Otago Women’s Pathway, applauded the advancement.
What does the Otago Sparks team stand to gain from Suzie’ return?
In addition to Suzie’ return, Otago has given batter Abby Fookes, who was born in 2006—the year Bates last appeared on Otago’s books—her first domestic contract. Tsukigawa also discussed Fookes’ potential, placing a young player in the company of one of the most illustrious individuals in New Zealand women’s cricket history.
Which other domestic players from New Zealand have made changes this season?
Claudia Green, a seamer for the Central Districts, has announced her retirement from both domestic and international cricket. In 2021, Green, then 28 years old, made two trips to England as a reserve bowler for the New Zealand squad.
Just days after turning 25, Gemma Sims, who played for both Wellington and Central Districts, has decided to retire from professional cricket. Sims made her debut for the Central Hinds in the 2020–21 season. Prior to the 2023–24 season, she joined the Wellington Blaze, where she spent three seasons. Kate Sims, her twin sister, has domestic experience with the Hinds as well. In a parting statement, Sims honoured her time with the Blaze.
