T20 World Cup champions New Zealand's women's cricket team have got a big boost ahead of the three-match T20I series against Australia, as star players Sophie Devine, Amelia Kerr and Lea Tahuhu have returned to the side. The much-awaited series will kick on March 21 in Auckland, Tauranga and Wellington. (More Cricket News)
Sophie Devine returns
Despite regular captain Sophie Devine returning to the mix, experienced batter Suzie Bates will continue to lead the team as interim skipper. Bates took charge of the side during the recent series against Sri Lanka, which ended in a 1-1 draw.
All-rounder Devine took a mental wellness break, due to which she was out of the Super Smash, Women's Premier League (WPL) and the home series against Sri Lanka.
Another key inclusion is of Amelia Kerr, ICC라이브 바카라 Women's Cricketer of the Year, who rejoins the squad fresh off her WPL triumph with the Mumbai Indians. Kerr, who played a pivotal role in New Zealand라이브 바카라 T20 World Cup final win, where she last featured in a T20I. She was named Player of the Match for her 43-run knock and three-wicket haul in the title clash.
Bowling Boost
The team's bowling attack has also got a big boost, as 33-year-old experienced fast bowler Lea Tahuhu has returned. Tahuhu was out since December due to a hamstring injury, but now she is fully fit and ready to lead the bowling attack.
In addition, batter Bella James, who was out of the recent series due to a quadriceps strain, has also got fitness clearance and will be available for selection.
However, wicketkeeper-batter Izzy Gaze, who suffered a hip flexor injury during the third ODI against Sri Lanka, is still in the rehab process and will not play in this series.
In her place, Polly Inglis, who recently made her international debut, has been included in the team.
The rest of the squad remains largely unchanged from the Sri Lanka series, though youngsters Emma McLeod, Izzy Sharp, Flora Devonshire, and Bree Illing have made way for the returning senior players.
The White Ferns will begin their campaign against Australia at Eden Park in Auckland on March 21. After this, the second match will be played in Tauranga and the third match in Wellington.
New Zealand squad for T20I series against Australia
Suzie Bates (captain), Eden Carson, Sophie Devine, Maddie Green, Brooke Holiday, Polly Inglis, Bella James, Fran Jonas, Jess Kerr, Amelia Kerr, Rosemary Meyer, Georgia Plimer, Lea Tahuhu
