New Zealand’s women’s cricket team is set to welcome back fast bowler Rosemary Mair for the 2024 T20 World Cup, after she recovered from a back injury that sidelined her earlier this year. The 25-year-old missed several matches, including the home series against England in March, but is now fit and ready to bolster the Kiwi pace attack in the UAE come October.
Mair, who has 18 wickets in 24 T20I appearances, will be a key addition to New Zealand’s experienced bowling lineup. She will join fellow fast bowlers Lea Tahuhu, Jess Kerr, Hannah Rowe, and Molly Penfold in what promises to be a formidable pace unit. Captain Sophie Devine and veteran Suzie Bates are also set to participate in their ninth consecutive T20 World Cup, having played in every edition since the tournament’s inception in 2009.
An Experienced Squad Led by Devine and Bates
New Zealand’s squad for the 2024 T20 World Cup reflects a blend of experience and youth, with most players having previously featured in the prestigious tournament. Apart from Mair, the squad includes familiar names such as all-rounders Brooke Halliday and Bates, as well as spin options like Leigh Kasperek, Melie Kerr, Fran Jonas, and Eden Carson.
Notably, wicketkeeper-batter Izzy Gaze is the only player in the squad who hasn’t played in a T20 World Cup before, making her debut in the global competition this year.
Speaking about the squad, head coach Ben Sawyer expressed his confidence in the team’s depth and versatility. “I’m really pleased with this squad; I think these are our best 15 players to adapt to what will likely be varied conditions,” Sawyer said. “Sophie and Suzie have a huge amount of tournament experience from World Cups to franchise leagues, so we’ll certainly be leaning on that knowledge in what’s going to be a pretty intense competition.”
Sawyer also lauded Mair’s resilience in overcoming her injury and highlighted her importance to the squad. “Rosemary’s had an unfortunate run with injury over the past few months, and she’s worked hard to be fit for this tournament. She’s proved herself as one of our key pace options, and we’re excited she’s returning.”
New Zealand’s Road to the World Cup
Before heading into the World Cup, New Zealand will take on Australia in a three-match T20I series. The matches are scheduled for September 19, 22, and 24, taking place in Mackay and Brisbane. These games will serve as a critical preparation for the World Cup, where New Zealand will face stiff competition.
The White Ferns will also play warm-up matches against South Africa and England on September 29 and October 1, respectively, before opening their World Cup campaign against India on October 4. New Zealand is part of a tough group that includes defending champions Australia, along with Sri Lanka and Pakistan.
Devine’s Final Chapter as T20I Captain
The 2024 T20 World Cup will be a significant milestone for Sophie Devine, as it marks her final assignment as New Zealand’s T20I captain. Devine, who has led the team with distinction over the years, will look to cap off her tenure with a strong performance in the tournament.
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With a mix of seasoned campaigners and exciting young talents, New Zealand’s squad looks well-rounded and prepared to take on the world’s best teams in what promises to be a thrilling competition.
New Zealand Squad for 2024 T20 World Cup:
Sophie Devine (captain), Suzie Bates, Eden Carson, Izzy Gaze, Maddy Green, Brooke Halliday, Fran Jonas, Leigh Kasperek, Jess Kerr, Melie Kerr, Rosemary Mair, Molly Penfold, Georgia Plimmer, Hannah Rowe, Lea Tahuhu.
The T20 World Cup will kick off in the UAE in October, with New Zealand eyeing a strong run in the tournament.
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