New Zealand include new faces in Commonwealth Games squad
With the recent retirements of Amy Satterthwaite and Katey Martin and the likes of Lea Tahuhu, Frankie Mackay and Leigh Kasperek still on the outer, the Kiwis have included four new players in their 15-player squad.
Batter Georgia Plimmer, spinner Eden Carson and wicketkeepers Izzy Gaze and Jess McFadyen have all been included, with experienced skipper Sophie Devine once again named to captain the New Zealand side.
Devine said she was excited about the prospect of women's cricket being part of the Commonwealth Games, following a men’s 50-over version played at Kuala Lumpur in 1998.
"We can’t wait to get on the plane," Devine said.
"To be the first women’s cricket team to represent the country at a global event like the Commonwealth Games is truly an honour.
"It’s been great to get the group back together this week at Bay Oval and our new squad members are finding their feet and fitting in well."
New Zealand Cricket CEO David White believes the re-introduction of cricket to the Commonwealth Games is a tremendous way to further promote the women's game.
"It’s a terrific time for cricket to be back at the Commonwealth Games – and it’s another excellent development for the women’s and girl’s game, both here and around the world," he said.
"I’m sure the players are going to love the experience of being part of a wider New Zealand team, and the slightly different context of the Games environment."
The Commonwealth Games commence at Edgbaston on July 29, with New Zealand's first match in the eight-team tournament coming the following day against South Africa.
New Zealand squad: Suzie Bates, Eden Carson, Sophie Devine (c), Lauren Down, Izzy Gaze, Maddy Green, Brooke Halliday, Hayley Jensen, Fran Jonas, Jess Kerr, Amelia Kerr, Rosemary Mair, Jess McFadyen, Georgia Plimmer, Hannah Rowe