Lauren Down out of World Cup after fracturing thumb

New Zealand batter Down suffered the injury while taking a catch during the White Ferns' defeat against India

New Zealand batter Lauren Down has been ruled out of the World Cup.

The 26-year-old injured her right thumb while taking a catch against India on Thursday.

She was pictured in a sling at the end of the match and subsequent scans revealed a fracture, with Georgia Plimmer replacing her in Bob Carter's squad.

"Quite simply, the entire squad is absolutely gutted for Lauren," said Carter. "She's a very popular member of the group and it's fair to say the team were quite emotional when we got the news she was out of the tournament."

Down made an unbeaten 64 as New Zealand won the third ODI against Mithali Raj's side and hit 30 in the last match of the series, with the hosts having already secured a series victory.

"You saw the impact Lauren had in the recent series against India," Carter added. "She played some really mature innings in the middle order and her fielding was at an exceptional standard.

"We wish her all the best with her recovery and know she'll be supporting us throughout the tournament."

Seamer Molly Penfold has also been added to the White Ferns' squad as a travelling reserve and, like Plimmer, will only join the party once completing a five-day isolation period.