White Ferns veteran Suzie Bates has called on the Government to stay true to its word and prioritise the COVID-19 managed isolation problems facing NZ athletes.
Bates has withdrawn from the upcoming Women’s Big Bash League in Australia, due to the uncertainty of securing an MIQ spot, while NZ captain Sophie Devine has chosen to play, despite the risk of jeopardising her World Cup preparations in New Zealand.
Injury ended Bates' Big Bash campaign last season - MIQ has ended it this season.
"It was a very difficult decision," she admits. "I didn't want to put myself in that position and be stranded in Australia."
The top-class tournament would have provided invaluable preparation for the one-day World Cup in New Zealand just months away
"There's no doubt that its the best competition in the world and if you perform there, you're in a really good position to take on the world."
For Devine, the benefit outweighs the uncertainty.
"I think it's helped me grow as a player and it’s provided me with different experiences, as well, to take back to the NZ environment, which I think is incredibly important."
"This is just one small risk I'm prepared to take, I guess."
The two-time Player of the Tournament makes no apologies.
"I don't want to say it's about the money, but it is partly about the money," says Devine. "I think, as female athletes, it's really important that we get the opportunities to earn that money."
MIQ is an issue facing all travelling Kiwi athletes right now.
"I fortunately can take that hit, but for some people who can't take that hit, it's really unfair."
But is the Government prepared to trial self isolation for sportspeople?
"Not immediately, no," says Sports Minister Grant Robertson. "I’m very sympathetic to Suzie and to other sportspeople who are in those circumstances."
Bates responds: "I'm hoping, by Christmas, they have a different stance on that… but I guess right now, I'm just happy to have my feet in New Zealand."
Which leaves Devine to take her chances with Perth Scorchers and the MIQ lottery.
"I'll be interested to see what he says if Sophie can't get back for the World Cup," chuckles Bates.
New Zealand last won the World Cup 21 years ago, so they won't want to leave that to chance.
