‌New Zealand announces experienced squad for Sophie Devine’s final captaincy assignment at T20 World Cup

Devine, 35, will be participating in her ninth T20 World Cup event, having been a part of every edition of the competition. Her ally, Suzie Bates shares a similar record for the White Ferns, having been a part of the competition since its inception in 2009. 

In yet another surprise, the governing body has announced the comeback of fast bowler Rosemary Mair who was injured during the series against England in March. Her presence improves their pace department which includes Lea Tahuhu, Jess Kerr, Hannah Rowe, and Molly Penfold. In addition, Devine and Brooke Halliday can roll their arms if required. Their spin department includes the experienced Amelia Kerr, Leigh Kasperek, Fran Jonas and Eden Carson.

"I'm really pleased with this squad; I think these are our best 15 players to adapt to what will likely be varied conditions. 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,” New Zealand head coach Ben Sawyer said.

The Kiwis will be playing three T20Is against Australia in the lead-up to the marquee event on September 19, 22, and 24 in Mackay and Brisbane. 

The White Ferns finished as runners-up in the first couple of editions. However, they’ve failed to make it to the knockouts in the last three iterations. With a formidable squad boasting rich experience, they would be hoping to create history at the UAE. New Zealand will play warm-up games against England and South Africa before ecnountering India in their curtain-raiser on October 4. Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Australia are the other teams in their group.

New Zealand squad for Women's T20 World Cup 2024

Sophie Devine (capt), Suzie Bates, Eden Carson, Izzy Gaze, Maddy Green, Brooke Halliday, Fran Jonas, Leigh Kasperek, Jess Kerr, Melie Kerr, Rosemary Mair, Molly Penfold, Georgia Plimmer, Hannah Rowe, Lea Tahuhu