Wellington, Nov 30 – New Zealand have named a strong women’s squad for next month’s white-ball series at home against Pakistan.
The series will consist of three T20I followed by three ODIs and will provide the White Ferns with valuable experience ahead of next year’s ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in Bangladesh.
Skipper Sophie Devine will once again lead New Zealand throughout the matches, with experienced batter Suzie Bates, veteran quick Lea Tahuhu and star all-rounder Amelia Kerr to provide plenty of support.
Kerr will however miss the opening match of the series in Dunedin on December 3 as she participates in the final of Australia’s domestic WBBL competition, an ICC report said.
New Zealand coach Ben Sawyer is hoping the series will provide his side a good opportunity to hone their skills prior to the start of the 2024 T20 World Cup.
“We’re looking to build on the back of some good recent form in bilateral series but more importantly, continue to develop combinations with an eye to the T20 World Cup in Bangladesh next year,” Sawyer said.
“From an ODI perspective, as well as continuing to develop our game plan, it’s extremely important that we look to get as many World Championship points as we can,” he said.
Sawyer said he had watched Pakistan play in recent times and has been impressed with the quality of their spin attack.
“Pakistan are match-ready having just come off an away series against Bangladesh,” Sawyer said.
“They have a strong spin attack, and a dangerous top order that puts a high value on their wicket, making them difficult to bowl to,” he added.
New Zealand squad: Sophie Devine (c), Kate Anderson, Suzie Bates, Bernadine Bezuidenhout, Eden Carson (T20I only), Izzy Gaze (ODI & 1st T20I), Maddy Green, Fran Jonas, Melie Kerr, Jess Kerr, Molly Penfold, Georgia Plimmer, Hannah Rowe, Lea Tahuhu.
