The New Zealand women’s cricket team, known as the WHITE FERNS, is set to face Sri Lanka in an upcoming T20I series. However, the team has been hit by injuries to key players, leading to significant changes in the squad.
Wicketkeeper-batter Izzy Gaze, pace bowler Hayley Jensen, and batter Bella James have been ruled out due to injuries. Gaze and Jensen are sidelined with hip flexor injuries, while James is recovering from a quadricep strain. In response, the selectors have called up wicketkeeper-batter Polly Inglis and left-arm seamer Bree Illing, both of whom made their international debuts during the recent ODI series against Sri Lanka. Additionally, 22-year-old allrounder Flora Devonshire has received her maiden call-up to the national team.
Flora Devonshire: A Rising Star
Flora Devonshire, a promising talent from the Central Hinds, has been making waves in domestic cricket. Known for her left-handed batting and left-arm orthodox spin, Devonshire has showcased her potential in various domestic competitions. Her all-round abilities and consistent performances have earned her this well-deserved opportunity to represent New Zealand at the international level.
Head coach Ben Sawyer expressed his confidence in the newcomers, stating that both Inglis and Illing had a positive start to their ODI careers and are ready to take on the challenges of T20I cricket. He also highlighted Devonshire’s all-round potential, aligning with the qualities the team seeks in its players.
The WHITE FERNS will commence their T20I series against Sri Lanka on March 15, 2025. Despite the injury setbacks, the team remains optimistic, banking on the fresh energy and talent brought in by the new inclusions. Fans and analysts alike will be keen to see how these changes impact the team’s dynamics and performance in the series.
