Daijiworld Media Network- New Zealand

New Zealand, Sep 10: Veteran all-rounder Sophie Devine will captain New Zealand in the Women’s ODI World Cup later this month, marking her fifth World Cup appearance. The 15-member White Ferns squad also features four newcomers set for their maiden ICC tournament.

Among the debutants is 22-year-old all-rounder Flora Devonshire, who has impressed at the domestic level to earn her first ODI call-up. Overall, six players in the squad will be making their World Cup debuts.

Seasoned campaigners Suzie Bates and pacer Lea Tahuhu will feature in their fifth and fourth World Cups respectively, while Maddy Green and Melie Kerr bring experience from three previous editions.

New Zealand coach Ben Sawyer expressed confidence in the squad’s balance and ability to tackle the challenges ahead in the eight-team tournament co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka from September 30.

"I’m really pleased with the balance of the squad. We’ve got the right mix to tackle what we’ll come up against in terms of conditions and opposition," Sawyer said.

The coach acknowledged that selection decisions were tough, particularly leaving out regulars like Fran Jonas, Lauren Down, Molly Penfold, and Hannah Rowe, but affirmed the team is prepared to give its best on the world stage.

The White Ferns will aim to emulate their success at last year’s Women’s T20 World Cup in the UAE, where they clinched the title. Sawyer highlighted the team’s rigorous preparation, noting that the break from international cricket since April allowed focused training on physical and technical skills.

New Zealand will open their World Cup campaign against Australia at Indore on October 1.

New Zealand Women’s ODI World Cup Squad: Sophie Devine (c), Suzie Bates, Eden Carson, Flora Devonshire, Izzy Gaze, Maddy Green, Brooke Halliday, Bree Illing, Polly Inglis, Bella James, Melie Kerr, Jess Kerr, Rosemary Mair, Georgia Plimmer, Lea Tahuhu.