New Zealand Cricket (NZC) on Wednesday named a 15-member squad for the upcoming ICC Women's T20 World Cup, with uncapped players Nensi Patel and Izzy Sharp earning maiden call-ups. The tournament is scheduled to be held in South Africa in February 2023.
Squad Overview
The squad, led by captain Sophie Devine, features a blend of experienced campaigners and promising newcomers. Patel, a 20-year-old left-arm spinner from Auckland, and Sharp, a 22-year-old wicketkeeper-batter from Canterbury, have been rewarded for their consistent performances in domestic cricket.
Key Inclusions
- Nensi Patel: The left-arm spinner has been in impressive form in the Super Smash, picking up wickets regularly. Her inclusion adds depth to the spin department.
- Izzy Sharp: A dynamic wicketkeeper-batter, Sharp has been a standout performer for Canterbury. Her ability to accelerate the innings makes her a valuable asset.
Experienced Core
The squad retains the core group from recent series, including Suzie Bates, Amelia Kerr, and Lea Tahuhu. Devine, who has been in sublime form with the bat, will lead the side. The team also includes experienced campaigners like Maddy Green and Hayley Jensen.
Preparation and Expectations
New Zealand will play a tri-series against South Africa and India before the World Cup as part of their preparation. The White Ferns, who reached the semifinals of the previous edition in 2020, will be aiming to go one step further this time around. Head coach Ben Sawyer expressed confidence in the squad's balance and depth.
"We have selected a squad that combines experience with exciting young talent. Nensi and Izzy have earned their spots through consistent performances, and we believe they can make an impact on the world stage," Sawyer said.
The T20 World Cup will feature 10 teams divided into two groups. New Zealand is placed in Group 1 alongside Australia, India, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh. The tournament begins on February 10, 2023.
