After Missing WPL, Devine Named In New Zealand's Squad To Face Australia

Sophie Devine, who took an indefinite break from cricket after leading New Zealand Women to their maiden T20 World Cup victory and missed the Women’s Premier League (WPL) as well as WHITE FERNS’ assignment against Sri Lanka, is back in action as she was named in the national team’s squad to face Australia in three T20Is.

The three T20 matches will be held as part of double headers alongside the men’s team matches against Pakistan. 

Along with Devine, Mellie Kerr, who also missed the Sri Lanka series to play the WPL and lift a second title with Mumbai Indians, will be back in the WHITE FERNS. Leah Tahuhu is also back, having recovered from her injuries. The team will be led by interim captain Suzie Bates, who was named the leader after Devine relinquished captaincy post the World Cup win. 

Head coach of the team, Ben Sawyer, on the comeback of the stalwarts, said, “We’re stoked to have Soph, Melie and Lea back for this series. They’re three key players who bring a wealth of experience and leadership to the group.”

New Zealand Women's Squad

Suzie Bates (C), Eden Carson, Sophie Devine, Maddy Green, Brooke Halliday, Polly Inglis, Bella James, Fran Jonas, Jess Kerr, Melie Kerr, Rosemary Mair, Georgia Plimmer, Lea Tahuhu