Suzie Bates: A Stalwart of New Zealand Women’s Cricket

Early life and rise

Suzie Bates was born in Dunedin in 1987. A gifted all-round athlete, she also represented New Zealand at basketball, and played domestic cricket for the Otago Sparks. She made her debut for the White Ferns in 2006 and became an established opener within a few years.

Playing style

Bates is a right-handed opening batter who plays with a strong technique, driving well through the off side and cutting and pulling when bowlers drop short. She is able to build an innings in one-day cricket and accelerate in T20, and she has also bowled occasional medium pace.

Career highlights

Bates has been among New Zealand’s leading run-scorers in both one-day and T20 internationals, and she has scored multiple centuries in ODIs. She has played in numerous ICC global tournaments, and she was part of the New Zealand team that won the 2024 Women’s T20 World Cup in the United Arab Emirates, beating South Africa in the final, the country’s first title in that event.

She has had a long career in franchise leagues, including the Women’s Super League and the Kia Super League in England with Southern Vipers, and spells in the Women’s Big Bash League in Australia. She has also captained New Zealand at various times. Because her career is still active, statistics are best checked against current sources.

Legacy

Bates is one of the best-known figures in New Zealand women’s cricket, and her longevity and consistency have helped to raise the profile of the women’s game. Her dual career in basketball and cricket also reflects the strong sporting culture of Otago and of New Zealand more broadly.

Frequently asked questions

Where was Suzie Bates born?

She was born in Dunedin, New Zealand, in 1987.

Did Suzie Bates play another sport?

Yes, she represented New Zealand at basketball in addition to playing cricket.

What did Suzie Bates win in 2024?

She was part of the New Zealand side that won the 2024 Women’s T20 World Cup.