As the Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 approaches, New Zealand has announced its 15-member squad for the tournament, set to be held in the UAE. New Zealand is placed in Group A for the World Cup, alongside defending champions Australia, India, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. New Zealand’s campaign will kick off against India on October 4.
New Zealand’s squad for T20 WC 2024
Rosemary Mair’s inclusion in the squad is a significant highlight. After recovering from a back injury sustained during the T20I leg of England’s tour to New Zealand earlier this year, Mair is set to make her return. Mair’s comeback will be crucial for New Zealand’s pace attack in the World Cup. Off-spinner Leigh Kasperek also makes a notable return, having rejoined the New Zealand squad during the T20I series in England.
Sophie Devine and Suzie Bates, two of New Zealand’s most experienced players, will be participating in their ninth consecutive T20 World Cup. Both have been instrumental in New Zealand’s cricketing journey since the tournament’s inception in 2009. Wicketkeeper-batter Izzy Gaze is the only player in the squad without prior T20 World Cup experience.
Head Coach Ben Sawyer’s perspective
Head coach Ben Sawyer expressed his confidence in the squad, praising it as the best 15 players to adapt to potentially varied conditions at the World Cup. His strategic approach aims to maximize the team’s performance on different pitches and weather conditions.
“I’m really pleased with this squad, I think these are our best 15 players to adapt to what will likely be varied conditions,” head coach Ben Sawyer said.
“Soph and Suze have a huge amount of tournament experience from World Cups to franchise leagues, so we’ll certainly be leaning on that knowledge in what’s going to be a pretty intense competition.
“Rosemary’s had an unfortunate run with injury over the past few months and she’s worked hard to be fit for this tournament. She’s proved herself as one of our key pace options and we’re excited she’s returning.”
New Zealand’s Pre-World Cup preparation
Before heading to the World Cup, New Zealand will face Australia in a three-match T20I series from September 19 to 24.
Warm-Up matches
New Zealand will also participate in two warm-up matches against South Africa and England.
New Zealand squad:Â Sophie Devine (C), Suzie Bates, Eden Carson, Izzy Gaze (wk), Maddy Green, Brooke Halliday, Fran Jonas, Leigh Kasperek, Jess Kerr, Melie Kerr, Rosemary Mair, Molly Penfold, Georgia Plimmer, Hannah Rowe, Lea Tahuhu
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