The WHITE FERNS will welcome back Suzie Bates, Sophie Devine, Georgia Plimmer, and Flora Devonshire for the upcoming five-match Life Direct T20I series against South Africa. Bates, who recovered from a quad tear, and Devonshire, who healed from a broken finger, will join Plimmer, who returned from a shoulder injury, for the series starting at Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui on Sunday. The five-match series will be played as double-header game-days alongside the BLACKCAPS and South Africa men’s KFC T20I series, allowing fans to watch all four teams compete on the same day. Devine’s return marks her first appearance since the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup in India in October, as the WHITE FERNS continue their preparation to defend their title ahead of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in England later this year. Head Coach Ben Sawyer highlighted the importance of Bates and Devine’s experience, stating their contributions to the team’s culture and performance are invaluable. “Their quality on the field speaks for itself, but what they bring culturally is really important for us as a team,” Sawyer said, expressing excitement about their inclusion in the squad. Plimmer’s return was also welcomed, as her absence during the Zimbabwe series due to a shoulder injury was a setback. Sawyer noted her role at the top of the order is critical, and her availability will aid the team’s development toward the World Cup. Devonshire, who missed the recent Zimbabwe series after a hand injury, was praised for her resilience following back-to-back injuries that kept her out of the squad. “It’s pleasing to have her back fit and ready for when we need her,” Sawyer said, expressing sympathy for her recent challenges.#suzie_bates #sophie_devine #white_ferns #georgia_plimmer #flora_devonshire
