New Zealand Women's Squad Announces Return of Key Players for T20I Series Against South Africa Sophie Devine, Suzie Bates, and Lea Tahuhu have been reinstated in New Zealand's T20I squad for the upcoming five-match series against South Africa. The trio, who had been absent from recent fixtures due to injury or contractual reasons, will contribute to the team's preparations for the Women's T20 World Cup in June. Devine, who is on a casual contract with New Zealand Cricket, was unavailable for the previous series against Zimbabwe, while Bates missed the series due to a quadricep injury. Tahuhu, who retired from ODIs, was not included in the earlier squad for "physical preparation planning" but will now be available for the final three matches of the T20I series. Head coach Ben Sawyer expressed enthusiasm about the players' return, highlighting their on-field expertise and cultural impact on the team. "Their quality on the field really does speak for itself, but what they bring to the group culturally is really important for us as a team," Sawyer said in a statement from NZC. The coach emphasized the value of integrating experienced players with newer squad members to strengthen the team's depth and cohesion. Opener Georgia Plimmer, who missed the Zimbabwe series due to a shoulder injury, has returned to the squad under Amelia Kerr's captaincy. Plimmer and Bates form the opening pair for the reigning T20 world champions, a role Kerr described as critical. "It was unfortunate to have Georgia miss out on most of the Zimbabwe series with her shoulder, so the whole group is glad to have her back," Kerr said. "Her role at the top of the order is a key one, and it'll be great to have her back as we continue to build toward that World Cup later in the year.#suzie_bates #sophie_devine #ben_sawyer #new_zealand_womens_squad #lea_tahuhu
White Ferns name squad for South Africa T20I series New Zealand have announced their squad for the upcoming five-match T20I series against South Africa, welcoming back experienced players Suzie Bates and Sophie Devine. Both athletes have completed their recovery from injuries and are set to participate in the series, which will begin at Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui on March 15. Bates, who suffered a quad tear, and Devine, returning after a prolonged absence due to personal reasons, will add depth and experience to the team. The squad includes 15 players, with specific rotations planned for different stages of the series. Bree Illing and Polly Inglis will feature in the first two matches before being replaced by Lea Tahuhu and Flora Devonshire in later games. Devonshire, who missed recent fixtures due to a series of back-to-back injuries, expressed relief at being back in the group and ready to contribute. The team’s preparations also focus on the upcoming ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024, where New Zealand aim to defend their title. Sophie Devine’s return marks her first appearance for the team since the 2025 Women’s Cricket World Cup, highlighting her continued importance to the squad. Head coach Ben Sawyer emphasized the value of Bates and Devine’s experience, noting their on-field skills and cultural contributions to the team’s dynamics. The squad list includes: Melie Kerr (captain), Suzie Bates, Sophie Devine, Jess Kerr, Rosemary Mair, Nensi Patel, Georgia Plimmer, Izzy Sharp, Izzy Gaze, Maddy Green, Brooke Halliday, Flora Devonshire, Lea Tahuhu, Bree Illing, Polly Inglis. Players marked with asterisks will only participate in the first two matches, while those noted with double asterisks will be available for the final three games.#new_zealand #south_africa #suzie_bates #sophie_devine #ben_sawyer
