Wellington, Sep 10: Despite being a formidable force in women's cricket, New Zealand have never won the ICC T20 World Cup title. However, they lifted the ODI World Cup once in 2000.
But the White Ferns squad named by the New Zealand Cricket (NZC) for the upcoming Women's T20 World Cup 2024 under seasoned batting all-rounder Sophie Devine seems to be well balanced with a nice blend of experience and youth.
Though it is bit too early to predict that Sophie Devine & Co can go all the way and win the coveted T20 World Cup title this time, but on paper and based on recent performances, they are surely a bunch who can win the coveted crown.
Apart from their vastly experienced skipper Devine, the squad has the presence of old warhorses like Suzie Bates, pacer Lea Tahuhu and leggie Amelia Kerr.
New Zealand squad for Women's T20 World Cup:
Sophie Devin (Captain), Suzie Bates, Eden Carson, Izzy Gaze, Maddy Green, Brooke Halliday, Fran Jonas, Leigh Kasperek, Amelia Kerr, Jess Kerr, Rosemary Mair, Molly Penfold, Georgia Plimmer, Hannah Rowe and Lea Tahuhu.
Replying to media queries about the team, New Zealand head coach Ben Sawyer said they are their best 15 players to adapt to what will likely be varied conditions in the UAE.
As per tournament fixtures, New Zealand have been placed in the Group A alongside Australia, India, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka in the Women's T20 World Cup. The Kiwis will play warm-up games against South Africa and England ahead of the main tournament.
The ICC Women's T20 World Cup will be held from October 3 to 20.
In Women's T20 World Cups, New Zealand finished runners-up twice in 2009 and 2010, been to the semifinals two times in 2012 and 2016. But have never won the T20 World Cup title so far.
