Will NZ spinner Eden Carson recover in time for the Women's T20 World Cup?
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Synopsis
Eden Carson's upcoming elbow surgery will keep her sidelined for six months, impacting New Zealand's title defense in the Women's T20 World Cup. Coach Ben Sawyer emphasizes the importance of prioritizing her health for a long career ahead.
Key Takeaways
- Eden Carson to have elbow surgery.
- Expected recovery time: six months.
- Misses 2026 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup.
- Coach Ben Sawyer supports Carson's decision for surgery.
- Carson's previous performance included nine wickets in the last T20 World Cup.
New Delhi, Dec 11 (NationPress) New Zealand's off-spinner Eden Carson is scheduled to undergo surgery on her right elbow this Thursday, with an expected recovery period of six months before she can return to competitive cricket.
Due to this recovery timeline, she will miss not only the remainder of the home summer but also New Zealand's title defense at the 2026 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup.
Carson sustained a partial ligament tear in her elbow during a training camp in Dubai prior to the 2025 ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup and continued to play despite the injury during the tournament.
Considering that the injury affects her bowling arm, head coach Ben Sawyer stated that they decided to proceed with surgery now to protect her long-term career.
“We’re all truly saddened for Eden. The team has a challenging six months ahead, and I understand how tough it was for her to make the decision to have surgery now, but I wholeheartedly support it. Not having Eden available will be a significant loss for the team, especially for the T20 World Cup, where she played a crucial role for us last year.
"At just 24 years old, she has a bright future ahead, so it’s vital we focus on getting her back on the field and fully fit,” Sawyer remarked in a statement from New Zealand Cricket (NZC).
In the October 2024 T20 World Cup-winning campaign in Dubai, Carson took nine wickets over six innings, boasting an economy rate of 6.39.
New Zealand's next international assignment is against Zimbabwe at home in February and March 2026, where the two teams will compete in three T20Is and three ODIs.
The matches are scheduled to take place at venues in Hamilton, Wellington, and Dunedin.
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Point of View
Eden Carson's injury presents a significant challenge for New Zealand's cricket team as they prepare for upcoming international fixtures. The focus should remain on supporting Carson during her recovery while also strategizing for the future without her presence in the squad.
NationPress
11/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the status of Eden Carson's injury?
Eden Carson is set to undergo surgery on her right elbow, which will require approximately six months of rehabilitation.
How will this surgery affect her cricket career?
The surgery will sideline Carson for at least six months, meaning she will miss crucial matches, including New Zealand's title defense at the 2026 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup.
What did Coach Ben Sawyer say about the situation?
Coach Ben Sawyer expressed his disappointment over the injury but emphasized the importance of prioritizing Carson's long-term health and career.
When is New Zealand's next international assignment?
New Zealand's next international series is against Zimbabwe in February and March 2026, comprising three T20Is and three ODIs.
What was Carson's performance in the last T20 World Cup?
During the 2024 T20 World Cup, Carson took nine wickets in six innings with an economy rate of 6.39.
