TOP STORIES
New Zealand announce squad for Zimbabwe series, experienced trio Bates, Devine, Tahuhu to miss out
New Zealand have unveiled their white-ball squads for the upcoming home series against Zimbabwe, with several experienced names missing from the line-up as the team reshapes for six matches across formats.
The series, which begins in Hamilton on February 25, will feature three T20Is followed by three ODIs. However, the hosts will be without a trio of experienced players. Veteran opener Suzie Bates has been ruled out due to a quadriceps injury. Spinner Eden Carson will also miss the series as she continues to recover from an elbow issue. Former captain Sophie Devine will sit out the series as well, though her absence is not injury-related. With multiple senior players unavailable, New Zealand have brought in Nensi Patel and Kayley Knight, handing them their maiden call-ups to the national side.
“Nensi and Kayley have both been solid performers over the last 12-18 months so it’s really pleasing for them to get this opportunity," Sawyer said.
“Nensi’s shown her value with bat and ball, and with Eden unavailable we’ll look to utilise her as a frontline spin option alongside Melie (Kerr). Kayley’s got a bright future ahead of her," New Zealand women head Coach Ben Sawyer said.
“She’s emerged as a potential frontline seam option who’s ready to test her skills at the next level.”
New Zealand squad: Flora Devonshire, Izzy Gaze, Maddy Green, Brooke Halliday, Bree Illing, Polly Inglis (T20Is only), Jess Kerr, Melie Kerr, Kayley Knight (T20Is only), Emma McLeod (ODIs only), Rosemary Mair, Nensi Patel, Molly Penfold (ODIs only) Georgia Plimmer, Izzy Sharp
Tags
More News
Virat Kohli, Rasikh Salam shine as RCB beat LSG comfortably
Royal Challengers Bengaluru, coming out with a spirited all-round performance, secured a five-wicket victory over Lucknow Super Giants on Wednesday in Bengaluru. Chasing a target of 147, RCB handled it with confidence, crossing the finish line in 15.1 overs. Superstar Virat Kohli anchored the innings with a composed 49 off 34 deliveries.
"He's playing out of position": Ex-Australian captain on KKR's high-profile signing Green
Former Australia captain Aaron Finch has slammed KKR's decision to send Cameron Green to bat at no. 6 during the side's chase of 192 in their IPL match against Chennai Super Kings on Tuesday at MA Chidambaram Stadium. Finch pointed out that Green was sent in at a time when two spinners were operating despite the presence of experienced stars in...
Ben Stokes quells rumours of rift with Brendon McCullum
England Test captain Ben Stokes has dismissed any suggestions of a crack in his relationship with head coach Brendon McCullum. Since taking charge in 2022, Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum have largely operated with a shared vision, transforming England’s Test side by bringing in aggression. Under their alliance, England have enjoyed colossal success, playing fe...
"The only players you have...": Pakistan cricketer speaks on IPL vs PSL comparison
Veteran Pakistani cricketer Ahmed Shehzad has categorically criticised the comparison between Indian Premier League (IPL) and Pakistan Super League (PSL). Shehzad, who was not picked by any franchise in the PSL 2026 draft, didn't hold back in expressing his ire, saying that overseas players participating in the PSL are either retired or were not in demand in the IPL. He asserte...
"He brings a unique skill": Tom Moody lauds LSG star Shami ahead of RCB clash
Veteran Indian bowler Mohammed Shami has masterminded one of the most thrilling comebacks in IPL 2026. Appearing for Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), the highly skilful bowler has delivered excellent performances, leading LSG's bowling attack quite intellectually. Though Shami has had four wickets in four matches, his economy rate has been great. He has enjoyed a remarkable economy ...
Android App
iOS App
YouTube
Facebook
Instagram