New Zealand have officially announced their 15-member squad for the upcoming ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025, set to be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka.
The announcement has generated plenty of buzz, as the White Ferns strike a fine balance between experience and youth in their quest for a long-awaited ICC trophy.
Devine’s Last Dance as ODI Captain
Skipper Sophie Devine will lead the team in what will be her fifth and final ODI World Cup. Known for her all-round brilliance and fearless leadership, Devine will be eager to sign off from the format on a high.
Joining her in the leadership group is Suzie Bates, another stalwart of women’s cricket, who is also appearing in her fifth World Cup. Between them, Devine and Bates bring a wealth of experience that will be invaluable in high-pressure matches.
Tough Picks and Strong Squad Balance
Head coach Ben Sawyer expressed pride in the squad’s blend of composure and potential:
“A huge congratulations to all 15 players… I’m really pleased with the balance of the squad.”
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Notably absent were notable names like Fran Jonas, Lauren Down, Molly Penfold, and Hannah Rowe, highlighting the fierce competition and difficult choices in selection.
Coach McMillan and Final Preparations
Backing the squad strategy is newly appointed full-time assistant coach Craig McMillan, whose full dedication to the women’s program promises added tactical depth. He recently highlighted the team’s intensive preparations in Chennai, tailored to the spin-friendly conditions they’re likely to face.
Squad Highlights: Experience Meets Youth
- Sophie Devine, in her fifth World Cup and final ODI appearance as captain, leads the side with grace and fire.
- Veteran campaigner Suzie Bates also marks her fifth tournament, while pacer Lea Tahuhu, Maddy Green, and Melie Kerr add experience with their third or fourth World Cups each.
- Adding fresh energy is 22-year-old all-rounder Flora Devonshire, earning her maiden ODI call-up, thanks to standout domestic performances.
New Zealand Women’s World Cup 2025 Squad
| Player | Role |
|---|---|
| Sophie Devine (C) | All-rounder |
| Suzie Bates | Batter |
| Melie Kerr | All-rounder |
| Lea Tahuhu | Bowler |
| Maddy Green | Batter |
| Amelia Kerr | All-rounder |
| Jess Kerr | Bowler |
| Katey Martin | Wicketkeeper |
| Brooke Halliday | All-rounder |
| Bernadine Bezuidenhout | Wicketkeeper |
| Hayley Jensen | All-rounder |
| Georgia Plimmer | Batter |
| Izzy Gaze | Batter |
| Eden Carson | Bowler |
| Flora Devonshire | All-rounder (new) |
The White Ferns open their campaign on October 1, 2025, against defending champions Australia in Indore. With seasoned players hungry for silverware and young guns eager to prove themselves, New Zealand fans have every reason to believe their team can go deep into the tournament.
In Shorts:
This New Zealand squad has the perfect mix of wisdom, firepower, and fresh spark. For Sophie Devine and Suzie Bates, this could be the fairytale ending they’ve been waiting for. For newcomers like Flora Devonshire, it’s the beginning of a journey on the world stage. One thing is certain – the White Ferns are ready to make a serious statement in the 2025 Women’s Cricket World Cup.
