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| New Zealand Names Uncapped Trio for Sri Lanka Series; Plimmer Returns After Injury |
New Zealand Names Uncapped Trio for Sri Lanka Series; Plimmer Returns After Injury
New Zealand has announced a fresh look for their upcoming series against Sri Lanka, including the selection of three uncapped players: Emma McLeod, Izzy Sharp, and Bree Illing. The 16-player squad also sees the return of Georgia Plimmer, who has recovered from a bone stress reaction in her hip that had kept her out of action since November.
With Sophie Devine taking a break for well-being, experienced Suzie Bates will step in as captain. Amelia Kerr, meanwhile, will be absent as she is participating in the Women’s Premier League (WPL) in India, representing Mumbai Indians.
**Uncapped Talents Get Their Chance**
The trio of uncapped players comes with promising credentials. McLeod, an 18-year-old batter, earned her place after impressing in the ongoing domestic one-day competition, accumulating 300 runs at an average of nearly 43. Her strong performances with Central Districts have earned her a call-up to the national squad after a solid stint in the Under-19 T20 World Cup.
Izzy Sharp, 20, captained New Zealand's Under-19 team during the inaugural Under-19 World Cup and has shown great potential in domestic cricket. Known for her aggressive approach against spin bowling, Sharp's inclusion comes with high expectations, particularly with Sri Lanka's formidable spinners.
Bree Illing, a 21-year-old left-arm seamer, has been a key performer for Auckland, ranking third in the domestic competition's wicket-taking charts with 19 wickets at an average of 21.10. Illing’s exceptional form in the T20 Super Smash and her ability to swing the ball make her a valuable addition to the squad.
**Plimmer Returns, New Faces on the Horizon**
Georgia Plimmer, who last played for New Zealand in the ODI series against India in November, makes her return to the team after recovering from injury. Alongside her, wicketkeeper-batter Polly Inglis gets her second call-up, following her initial selection for the India tour, although she is yet to make her international debut.
Bella James, who made her ODI debut in December against Australia, could make her T20I debut during the Sri Lanka series. James’ inclusion reflects the growing depth in New Zealand's women’s cricket program.
**Injuries and Comebacks**
While some key players like Lea Tahuhu (hamstring) and Rosemary Mair (elbow) are recovering from injuries, both are expected to be available for the upcoming T20Is against Sri Lanka. Mair is set to feature in the T20Is starting March 14, while Tahuhu should be ready for the T20Is against Australia, scheduled to begin on March 21.
Molly Penfold, who has been sidelined with a knee injury, is also expected to make her return in the coming months.
**Looking Ahead to the ODI World Cup**
Head coach Ben Sawyer is keen to use the Sri Lanka series to build the team’s experience, particularly in facing spin bowling, which will be vital for the upcoming ODI World Cup in India this October. He emphasized the challenge of playing against a team with world-class spinners, adding that the series will provide an excellent opportunity to test different player combinations and roles.
"We will experiment with different combinations and positions. It’s an opportunity to test batters in various spots and try different bowlers at different phases of the game," Sawyer said.
The series kicks off with the ODI matches in Napier on March 4, followed by two more games in Nelson on March 7 and 9. The T20Is will take place in Christchurch on March 14 and 16, with the final match in Dunedin on March 18.
**New Zealand Women’s ODI and T20I Squads for Sri Lanka Series:**
- **Suzie Bates (capt)**
- Eden Carson
- Izzy Gaze
- Maddy Green
- Brooke Halliday
- Bree Illing (ODIs only)
- Polly Inglis (ODIs only)
- Bella James
- Hayley Jensen
- Fran Jonas
- Jess Kerr
- Rosemary Mair (T20Is only)
- Emma McLeod
- Georgia Plimmer
- Hannah Rowe (ODIs only)
- Izzy Sharp (T20Is only)
With a mixture of experienced campaigners and promising new talent, New Zealand's squad is gearing up for a challenging and exciting series against Sri Lanka.