Bree Illing & Bella James named in White Ferns contracts

Illing and James Earn Maiden White Ferns Contracts for 2025–26

Summary

New Zealand Cricket has awarded central contracts to emerging stars Bree Illing and Bella James ahead of the 2025–26 season. Illing’s left-arm swing and breakthrough performances scream international readiness, while James’ decade-long persistence has been rewarded with a deserved elevation. Their contracts mark a shift, filling the spaces left by retiring and transitioning veterans and signaling a bright new era for the White Ferns.

Bree Illing: 29 wickets at an average of 21 in 2024–25 domestic season; 6 international wickets on debut

Bella James: Key batter in Otago’s back-to-back HBJ Shield wins; first ODI six vs. Megan Schutt

Rising Talent: Bree Illing’s Swinging Debut

Auckland Hearts’ left-arm seamer Bree Illing, just 21, has burst onto the scene since her domestic debut in 2022, finishing as the Hearts’ leading wicket-taker with 29 dismissals across formats. Her performance in the HBJ Shield—21 wickets at a sharp average of 21, including two four-wicket hauls (4/39 and 4/49)—cemented her reputation. Her spin-merging swing impressed further on the international stage, claiming six wickets against Sri Lanka in her debut ODI and T20I series—and twice dismissing their captain Chamari Athapaththu.

White Ferns coach Ben Sawyer praised Illing’s poise under pressure:

“To show up the way she did against a world-class batter like Chamari shows she’s ready for international cricket.” 

Her consistency and impact speak volumes about her potential at the international level.

Ten Years in the Making: Bella James' Long Journey

Otago Sparks’ batter Bella James has finally earned her maiden central contract after a decade of steady progress since debuting at just 16 in 2014. A linchpin in Otago’s batting order, she played a pivotal role in securing back-to-back HBJ Shield titles. Her domestic dominance—a List A century in 2023 followed by another unbeaten 101 in November 2024—translated to confidence in her White Ferns introduction.

Making waves on debut, she cleared her first international boundary with a six off Megan Schutt, then ranked third in ODIs. Coach Sawyer reflected:

“Bella’s been a consistent performer domestically and had a great debut series against Australia last year. She’s got the competencies that will succeed at international level.”

Her selection rewards steadfast development and depth within the White Ferns batting lineup.

Filling the Voids: A Fresh Direction

Illing and James step into roles vacated by Hayley Jensen (retired) and Sophie Devine (transitioned to a casual agreement post-World Cup ODI retirement). Their inclusion reflects a strategic renewal ahead of a crucial season featuring both ODI and T20 World Cups.

NZC’s High Performance head, Liz Green, applauded the new signings:

“We’re especially excited to welcome Bree and Bella… we’re excited to see what they bring in what promises to be a huge year…” 

The selection process, directed by Bryan Stronach and led by coach Sawyer and selector Sarah Tsukigawa, was highly competitive.

Central Squad: Depth and Promise

The new 2025–26 White Ferns contract list now includes:

Suzie Bates, Eden Carson, Lauren Down, Izzy Gaze, Maddy Green, Brooke Halliday, Bree Illing, Polly Inglis, Bella James, Fran Jonas, Jess Kerr, Melie Kerr, Rosemary Mair, Molly Penfold, Georgia Plimmer, Hannah Rowe, Lea Tahuhu.

The elevation of Illing and James brings fresh energy to a squad poised to contest the upcoming ODI and T20 World Cups.

What Lies Ahead

Illing and James are currently touring England with New Zealand A, sharpening their skills before possible elevation to full international duties. Their blend of youth and performance sets the stage for exciting contributions in the upcoming ICC events and bilateral series.