WHITE FERNS Announce Squad for SL Series with Fresh Faces

WHITE FERNS Introduce Young Talent for SL Series

New Zealand Cricket (NZC) has unveiled the WHITE FERNS squad for their upcoming ODI and T20I series against Sri Lanka (SL), with a strong emphasis on youth and future potential. The squad features three uncapped players Emma McLeod, Izzy Sharp, and Bree Illing who have earned their maiden call-ups, alongside the return of Georgia Plimmer from injury.

The selection marks a new era for the WHITE FERNS, as they build towards the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup in India.

Rising Stars Get Their Opportunity

Eighteen-year-old Emma McLeod, a top performer in the Hallyburton Johnstone (HBJ) Shield, has been rewarded for her consistency with the bat. The Central Hinds all-rounder has shown great composure, averaging 42 in the competition, making her one of the top run-scorers.

Bree Illing, the Auckland Hearts left-arm seamer, has also impressed selectors with her tight economy rate in the Dream11 Super Smash and her wicket-taking ability in domestic cricket. Finishing among the top three wicket-takers in the HBJ Shield, her ability to swing the ball back into right-handers adds variety to the pace attack.

Izzy Sharp, a former New Zealand U19 captain, has made her mark with the Canterbury Magicians, showcasing her ability to handle spin an essential skill as the team prepares for subcontinent conditions.

Experience Meets Fresh Energy

Alongside the newcomers, Polly Inglis has been named in the ODI squad, following her previous selection for the India tour last year. Meanwhile, Bella James, one of NZ’s top run-scorers in the Rose Bowl series, secures her first T20I selection.

Georgia Plimmer makes her return after being sidelined with a bone stress injury in her hip since November. Her comeback will strengthen the middle order as NZ looks to fine-tune their combinations.

Squad Adjustments Due to Injuries & WPL Commitments

The squad will be missing key players, with Molly Penfold (knee), Lea Tahuhu (hamstring), and Rosemary Mair (elbow) all recovering from injuries. Mair is expected to return in time for the SL T20I series, while Tahuhu is eyeing a comeback for the AUS series.

Additionally, Melie Kerr is unavailable due to her Women’s Premier League (WPL) stint with Mumbai Indians, as the revised tournament schedule overlaps with the SL series.

Leadership & Strategy for the Series

With Sophie Devine taking a well-being break, veteran Suzie Bates will step in as interim captain. WHITE FERNS Head Coach Ben Sawyer emphasized that the series will serve as crucial preparation for the World Cup, particularly against SL’s strong spin attack.

"This is a great opportunity for our young players to gain international experience. Facing quality spin bowling is vital as we gear up for the World Cup in India," said Sawyer.

He also highlighted plans to test different batting orders and bowling combinations, ensuring all squad members get a chance to showcase their skills.

Looking Ahead

The squad will assemble in Napier on March 2 following the HBJ Shield Grand Final. With NZ vs SL shaping up to be a highly competitive series, the WHITE FERNS will aim to blend experience with fresh energy to gain crucial momentum heading into a packed international calendar.

The matches will be broadcast live on TVNZ+ and TV1, ensuring fans can catch all the action.

Can the new faces make an impact? Stay tuned as the WHITE FERNS take on SL in a series that could define the team’s future.