Amy Hunter is an injury doubt for the senior World Cup that starts in South Africa next month after being forced to withdraw from the U19 equivalent with a fractured left thumb.

The U19 captain and rising star of women’s cricket struck 21 during her side’s opening match defeat by the West Indies on Sunday and her absence was felt yesterday  as New Zealand romped to a nine-wicket win in Potchefstroom.

Ireland suffered two early run outs, including new skipper Siúin Woods, as they were bowled out for 74 and Georgina Dempsey took the only wicket to fall before the Kiwis reached their target in 6.5 overs.

The loss means Ireland must beat Indonesia in their final group game tomorrow  to progress to the second stage of the T20 tournament. Aoife Fisher will fly out to South Africa to replace Hunter.