Izzy Gaze ruled out of New Zealand T20I series against Australia

New Zealand wicketkeeper Izzy Gaze will miss the upcoming T20I series against Australia after undergoing thumb surgery. New Zealand Cricket named Brooke James, Georgia Rowe and Fran Penfold in the squad as replacements. Gaze is expected to return to competitive cricket in early 2027.

The three-match series begins later this month. New Zealand Cricket said the selection panel prioritised players who had performed consistently in domestic competitions over the winter. James, Rowe and Penfold have all featured in recent domestic tournaments and trained with the national squad.

Gaze had established herself as New Zealand's primary white-ball wicketkeeper after taking over from Katey Martin. Her absence leaves the selectors with limited options behind the stumps for the remainder of the calendar year.