New Zealand, fresh from their historic Women’s T20 World Cup victory, has announced their squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series against India, making just two changes from the title-winning team. The squad, revealed on Monday (October 21), features the core of the team that recently clinched the T20 World Cup in the UAE, including captain Sophie Devine, veteran Suzie Bates, and tournament standout Melie Kerr.
After a triumphant World Cup campaign that saw New Zealand defeat South Africa in the final, the team is now gearing up for a challenging tour in India. The series will be held at the iconic Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad from October 24 to 29. This ODI series is not only important in its own right but also serves as preparation for next year's ODI World Cup, which will also take place in India.
The two changes to the World Cup-winning squad include the absence of pacer Rosemary Mair, who has been rested to manage her workload, and off-spinner Leigh Kasperek. Mair's exclusion is a tactical decision by the coaching staff, as she has played a pivotal role in the team’s recent success. Kasperek, a key spinner, will also miss the series, allowing New Zealand to test other options in the conditions expected in India.
Lauren Down, a solid batter, returns to the squad, strengthening the middle-order batting lineup. Meanwhile, wicketkeeper-batter Polly Inglis earns her maiden call-up, offering additional depth behind the stumps and with the bat. Head coach Ben Sawyer highlighted the importance of this tour, not just for the series victory but as a key preparation for next year’s ODI World Cup.
Sawyer, reflecting on the team's recent World Cup success, said: "It's been an incredible 24 hours for this group after becoming T20 World Cup champions. While we’re still relishing the moment, we understand the importance of refocusing quickly when we arrive in India. Alongside aiming to win the series, this tour will provide valuable preparation for the upcoming ODI World Cup."
Leading the side will once again be Sophie Devine, who has been in fine form throughout the T20 World Cup. She will be supported by experienced players such as Suzie Bates and pace bowler Lea Tahuhu. Devine, who played a critical role in guiding her team to World Cup glory, will look to continue her leadership on the subcontinent’s slower pitches.
Joining them will be T20 World Cup Player of the Tournament Melie Kerr, whose all-round performances were crucial to New Zealand’s title run. Fran Jonas, Jess Kerr, Eden Carson, and Hannah Rowe also remain key members of the bowling attack, providing a well-rounded squad for the tour.
New Zealand’s ODI series against India will be a significant test as they take on Harmanpreet Kaur’s Indian side. The hosts, known for their formidable home advantage, will be a challenging opponent, and the series promises high-quality cricket.
The three ODIs are scheduled as follows: the first match will be played on Thursday, October 24, followed by the second on Sunday, October 27, and the final game on Tuesday, October 29. All matches will begin at 1:30 PM IST at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.
New Zealand Squad for India ODI Series:
Sophie Devine (captain), Suzie Bates, Eden Carson, Lauren Down, Izzy Gaze (wicketkeeper), Maddy Green, Brooke Halliday, Polly Inglis (wicketkeeper), Fran Jonas, Jess Kerr, Melie Kerr, Molly Penfold, Georgia Plimmer, Hannah Rowe, Lea Tahuhu.
IND-W vs NZ-W Schedule:
- Thursday, October 24: 1st ODI - 1:30 PM IST
- Sunday, October 27: 2nd ODI - 1:30 PM IST
- Tuesday, October 29: 3rd ODI - 1:30 PM IST
The ODI series will not only provide thrilling cricket but also set the tone for both teams as they prepare for the bigger challenge of the upcoming 2025 ODI World Cup in India.
