Rosemary Mair returns as New Zealand reveal Women's T20 World Cup 2024 squad

New Zealand, on Tuesday (September 10), announced their 15-member squad ahead of the upcoming Women's T20 World Cup 2024 which is set to take place in the UAE in October. Veteran stars Sophie Devine and Suzie Bates are set to play in their ninth edition of the tournament. 

The experienced duo have featured in every edition of the women’s event since its inception in 2009. Devine will captain the White Ferns in the T20 World Cup, but will step down as the skipper at the conclusion of the tournament. Head coach Ben Sawyer spoke positively about the experience the two bring to the table. “Soph and Suze 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," he said.

Devine said, “The T20 World Cup’s been an important vehicle in the development and growth of the women’s game and it’s a real privilege to think I’ve played in it since it started.”

“I’m really looking forward to another opportunity to compete against world-class teams that are all vying to take home the trophy," she continued. 

Seam bowler Rosemary Mair is back in the squad after having sustained a back injury during the home series against England earlier this year. The same injury ruled her out for the return tour against Heather Knight's side in June-July. Off-spinner Leigh Kasperek, who is set to take part in her fourth T20 World Cup, will strengthen the spin attack along with Melie Kerr, Fran Jonas and Eden Carson. 

Wicket-keeper Izzy Gaze is the only New Zealander without T20 World Cup experience. 

Sawyer said in a media release, “Congratulations to all of the players named in this squad, it’s a significant achievement to be selected to represent your country at a World Cup. I’m really pleased with this squad, I think these are our best 15 players to adapt to what will likely be varied conditions.” 

The White Ferns have been placed in Group A alongside Australia, India, Pakistan and Sri Lanka. They will play two warm-up games against South Africa and England before commencing their campaign against India on October 4 in Dubai. New Zealand will tour Australia for a three-match T20I series from September 19 to September 24 before the mega event. 

New Zealand squad for Women's T20 World Cup 2024: Sophie Devine (C), Amelia Kerr (VC), Suzie Bates, Eden Carson, Izzy Gaze (WK), Maddy Green, Brooke Halliday, Fran Jonas, Leigh Kasperek, Jess Kerr, Rosemary Mair, Molly Penfold, Georgia Plimmer, Hannah Rowe, Lea Tahuhu