New Zealand have unveiled their white-ball squads for the upcoming home series against Zimbabwe, with several experienced names missing from the line-up as the team reshapes for six matches across formats.
The series, which begins in Hamilton on February 25, will feature three T20Is followed by three ODIs. However, the hosts will be without a trio of experienced players. Veteran opener Suzie Bates has been ruled out due to a quadriceps injury. Spinner Eden Carson will also miss the series as she continues to recover from an elbow issue. Former captain Sophie Devine will sit out the series as well, though her absence is not injury-related. With multiple senior players unavailable, New Zealand have brought in Nensi Patel and Kayley Knight, handing them their maiden call-ups to the national side.
“Nensi and Kayley have both been solid performers over the last 12-18 months so it’s really pleasing for them to get this opportunity," Sawyer said.
“Nensi’s shown her value with bat and ball, and with Eden unavailable we’ll look to utilise her as a frontline spin option alongside Melie (Kerr). Kayley’s got a bright future ahead of her," New Zealand women head Coach Ben Sawyer said.
“She’s emerged as a potential frontline seam option who’s ready to test her skills at the next level.”
New Zealand squad: Flora Devonshire, Izzy Gaze, Maddy Green, Brooke Halliday, Bree Illing, Polly Inglis (T20Is only), Jess Kerr, Melie Kerr, Kayley Knight (T20Is only), Emma McLeod (ODIs only), Rosemary Mair, Nensi Patel, Molly Penfold (ODIs only) Georgia Plimmer, Izzy Sharp