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Devine, Kerr, and Tahuhu Return for New Zealand’s T20I Series Against Australia
New Zealand Strengthens Squad with Senior Players for Three-Match T20I Series
New Zealand has bolstered its squad for the upcoming three-match T20I series against Australia with the return of Sophie Devine, Amelia Kerr, and Lea Tahuhu. The series, scheduled to begin on March 21, promises to be a thrilling encounter as the White Ferns face off against the reigning T20 World Cup champions.
Devine, Kerr, and Tahuhu Back in Action
The return of three senior players provides a significant boost for New Zealand as they prepare for a challenging series.
Sophie Devine Returns After Mental Health Break
Star all-rounder Sophie Devine, 35, is making a comeback after taking a break from international and domestic cricket in January to focus on her well-being. During her time away, she missed key tournaments, including the Dream11 Super Smash, the Women’s Premier League (WPL), and the recently concluded series against Sri Lanka.
Amelia Kerr Rejoins After WPL Triumph
All-rounder Amelia Kerr, who was part of the victorious Mumbai Indians squad in the WPL, is set to rejoin the national team. Her last appearance for New Zealand was in the T20 World Cup final against South Africa in Dubai last year.
Lea Tahuhu Overcomes Hamstring Injury
Pace bowler Lea Tahuhu has also made her way back into the squad after recovering from persistent hamstring injuries that kept her sidelined since December. With her experience and pace, she is expected to strengthen New Zealand’s bowling attack.
Squad Changes: New Faces In, Others Make Way
Head coach Ben Sawyer has included Bella James and Polly Inglis in the squad, providing additional depth. However, the likes of Emma McLeod, Izzy Sharp, Flora Devonshire, and Bree Illing have been left out for this series.
Sawyer expressed his excitement about the return of the three experienced players, stating:
“We’re stoked to have Soph, Melie, and Lea back for this series. They’re three key players who bring a wealth of experience and leadership to the group.”
“Soph’s had some time away from the game and is now in a space where she’s looking forward to getting back out on the park. Everyone knows the power she possesses and what an asset she is to any team, so we’re really pleased to have her back for what we know will be a competitive series.”
Double-Header Matches with Men’s T20I Series
The three-match New Zealand vs. Australia women’s T20I series will be played as part of a double-header event. While the women’s team takes the field in the daytime, the New Zealand men’s team will continue their five-match T20I series against Pakistan in the evening. The Black Caps currently lead their series 2-0.
Full Schedule and Venues
The three T20I matches will be held across three major New Zealand venues:
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March 21 – Auckland
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March 24 – Tauranga
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March 27 – Wellington
New Zealand Women’s T20I Squad
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Suzie Bates (C)
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Eden Carson
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Sophie Devine
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Maddy Green
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Brooke Halliday
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Polly Inglis
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Bella James
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Fran Jonas
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Jess Kerr
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Amelia Kerr
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Rosemary Mair
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Georgia Plimmer
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Lea Tahuhu
For a comprehensive look at how New Zealand has fared in past encounters with Australia, check out our Cricket News Section.
What This Means for New Zealand
With the return of key players and the squad looking strong, the White Ferns will aim to put up a tough fight against a formidable Australian side. The inclusion of experienced campaigners like Devine, Kerr, and Tahuhu will add depth and balance to the team.
Cricket fans can expect an exciting series as the White Ferns seek to make a statement against their trans-Tasman rivals. Follow the latest cricket news and updates on ESPN Cricinfo.
