New Zealand Women's T20I Squad Sees Key Returns for Australia Series 🏏
The New Zealand Women's cricket team has announced its squad for the upcoming three-match T20 International series against Australia, marking the conclusion of the 2024-25 home summer. The squad sees the welcome return of several key players, while an injury sidelines one familiar face. Let's delve into the details of the selection and the reasons behind the changes.
Key Returns and Squad Overview
The most significant news surrounding the squad announcement is the return of Sophie Devine, Amelia Kerr, and Lea Tahuhu. These players bring a wealth of experience and leadership to the team. The squad is captained by Suzie Bates and includes a mix of established stars and emerging talents. Bella James also makes a return, eager to make her T20I debut after overcoming an injury.
- Sophie Devine: Devine had taken a well-being break last month, which prevented her participation in the Super Smash, the Women's Premier League (WPL) in India, and New Zealand's series against Sri Lanka. She expressed her enthusiasm for returning to the team, stating, “It’s nice to have had some time to reset and refocus and I’m really looking forward to getting back out there with the girls.”
- Amelia Kerr: Kerr returns to international cricket after a successful stint with Mumbai Indians in the WPL, where she dominated with the ball, claiming 18 wickets and earning the prestigious Purple Cap. Her return significantly strengthens the bowling attack.
- Lea Tahuhu: Tahuhu has recovered from a grade-two hamstring tear sustained in December, making her availability a major boost for the team's bowling options.
- Bella James: After missing the Sri Lanka series due to a quadriceps strain, James has successfully passed her fitness tests and will be travelling with the team.
Absence and Replacements
Izzy Gazze unfortunately misses out on the series due to a persistent hip-flexor sprain that also kept her sidelined during the Sri Lanka series. Her replacement, Polly Inglis, has been named in the squad. Inglis made her ODI and T20I debuts against Sri Lanka, although her opportunities to bat were limited.
Several players have made way for the returning trio: Emma McLeod, Izzy Sharp, Flora Devonshire, and Bree Illing. Their absence highlights the competitive nature of selection within the squad.
Coach's Perspective
New Zealand head coach Ben Sawyer expressed his delight at the return of Devine, Kerr, and Tahuhu. “We’re stoked to have Soph, Meli and Lea back for this series,” Sawyer said. “They’re three key players who bring a wealth of experience and leadership to the group.”
Match Schedule
The three-match T20I series will be played across three venues:
- March 21: Auckland
- March 23: Mount Maunganui
- March 26: Wellington
Full New Zealand Squad:
- Suzie Bates (capt)
- Eden Carson
- Sophie Devine
- Maddy Green
- Brooke Halliday
- Polly Inglis
- Bella James
- Fran Jonas
- Jess Kerr
- Meli Kerr
- Rosemary Mair
- Georgia Plimmer
- Lea Tahuhu
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Q: Why did Sophie Devine miss previous series? A: Sophie Devine took a well-being break last month, which prevented her participation in the Super Smash, WPL, and the Sri Lanka series.
Q: What injury did Lea Tahuhu sustain? A: Lea Tahuhu recovered from a grade-two hamstring tear.
Q: When will Bella James make her T20I debut? A: Bella James is available for selection and will travel with the team. Her debut will depend on team selection for each match.
Q: What is the significance of Amelia Kerr’s return? A: Amelia Kerr’s return strengthens the bowling attack, and her performance in the WPL demonstrates her current form and skill level.