New Zealand Announces Women’s T2o World Cup , Sophie Devine To Lead

New Zealand’s squad for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 will be led by the experienced all-rounder Sophie Devine, marking her ninth consecutive appearance in the prestigious tournament.

Devine, at 35, will aim to guide the team to a title that has narrowly eluded them, with New Zealand finishing as runners-up in 2009 and 2010.

The team includes several seasoned campaigners like Suzie Bates, another stalwart who, along with Devine, has appeared in every edition of the Women’s T20 World Cup. Other key players include pace bowler Lea Tahuhu, the versatile Amelia Kerr, and the dependable Maddy Green, ensuring the squad has a solid core of experience.

Rosemary Mair returns to the squad after missing the tour of England due to a back injury, bolstering the pace attack alongside Jess Kerr, Tahuhu, Hannah Rowe, and Molly Penfold. The spin department looks promising with Amelia Kerr, Leigh Kasperek, and Fran Jonas, who will likely play a key role on the spin-friendly surfaces in the UAE.

Head coach Ben Sawyer expressed confidence in the squad, highlighting the blend of youth and experience that should help the team perform in varied conditions. He emphasized the importance of Devine and Bates’ leadership, drawing on their extensive international and franchise cricket experience.

New Zealand has been drawn in Group A, a tough pool featuring defending champions Australia, along with India, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. Before the main event kicks off, they will play warm-up games against South Africa and England.