New Zealand have named pacer Rosemary Mair and off-spinner Leigh Kasperek in their 15-member squad for the upcoming Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 in the UAE.
Mair, who sustained a back injury during the T20I series against England in March, had been sidelined for the subsequent ODI matches and the return tour in June-July.
Kasperek, on the other hand, made her return to the New Zealand side during the T20I leg of the England tour after a year-long absence and will strengthen the team’s spin attack at the World Cup, marking her fourth appearance in the tournament.
Captain Sophie Devine, who will step down from the T20I captaincy after the World Cup, and former captain Suzie Bates are both preparing for their ninth consecutive T20 World Cup, having played in every edition since the inaugural tournament in 2009 in England.
The squad is largely experienced, with only one player, wicketkeeper-batter Izzy Gaze, yet to feature in a T20 World Cup.
“The T20 World Cup has been instrumental in the growth of the women’s game, and it’s a privilege to have been part of it since its inception,” Devine said.
“I’m really looking forward to competing against world-class teams in pursuit of the trophy.”
Head coach Ben Sawyer expressed confidence in the squad, saying, “This is our best group of players to adapt to the varied conditions we may face.
Sophie and Suzie bring a wealth of experience from World Cups to franchise leagues, and we’ll rely on their knowledge throughout the tournament.”
Sawyer also praised Mair’s determination to return from injury: “Rosemary has had a tough run with injuries, but she’s worked incredibly hard to be fit for the World Cup.
She’s proven herself as one of our key pace options, and we’re thrilled to have her back.”
New Zealand squad:
Player Name |
---|
Sophie Devine (Captain) |
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 |
The same squad will compete in a three-match T20I series against Australia from September 19 to 24, before both teams head to the World Cup.
New Zealand are placed in Group A at the World Cup, alongside defending champions Australia, as well as India, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka.
They will play two warm-up matches against South Africa and England, before beginning their World Cup campaign against India on October 4.
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