NEWS
Follow UsUncapped wicketkeeper-batter Polly Inglis and middle-order batter Lauren Down have been named in New Zealand Women’s squad for the three-match One-Day International series against India, starting October 24 in Ahmedabad.
Inglis, 28, received her first New Zealand Cricket (NZC) central contract in June following consistent performances with bat and gloves in last season’s domestic competitions and for New Zealand A. Meanwhile, Down, who has played 30 ODIs and 13 T20Is, is making her return to international cricket following a maternity break.
These two are the only additions to the squad that won the 2024 Women’s T20 World Cup in the UAE by defeating South Africa in the finale on October 20 (Sunday). The White Ferns had started their campaign by hammering India by 58 runs.
Rosemary Mair has been rested for the series as part of her long-term rehabilitation from a serious back injury sustained earlier this year. The seamer’s bowling loads were managed through the T20 World Cup and it has been determined that further management is needed before she returns to 50-over cricket. Meanwhile, off-spinner Leigh Kasperek has been left out.
“We’re really excited to introduce Polly for her first tour. She put her hand up in last season’s Hallyburton Johnstone Shield one-day competition and throughout the New Zealand A series against England, so it’s a great next step for her,” said head coach Ben Sawyer.
“Touring India is one of the great experiences in world cricket. It’s such a special place to come and I know everyone is looking forward to the challenge ahead. Alongside trying to win the series, the tour will serve as important preparation for next year’s ODI World Cup in India.
“It’s been an amazing 24 hours for this group becoming T20 World Cup champions. We’re relishing the win but when we get to India we’ll need to refocus and set our sights on the next challenge.”
The White Ferns are currently sixth on the Women's Championship points table. The top five teams, plus hosts India, will qualify directly for the Women's ODI World Cup next year.
Squad - Sophie Devine (capt), Suzie Bates, Eden Carson, Lauren Down, Izzy Gaze (wk), Maddy Green, Brooke Halliday, Polly Inglis (wk), Fran Jonas, Jess Kerr, Amelia Kerr, Molly Penfold, Georgia Plimmer, Hannah Rowe, Lea Tahuhu
(With inputs from NZC media release)
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