NZ Leave Kasperek Out Of WC, Series VS India
Auckland, Feb 3: New Zealand will go into the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2022 without their most successful ODI bowler Leigh Kasperek. The 29-year-old could not make it to the 15-member squad, which will also take on India in the forthcoming limited-overs series to be played at John Davies Oval in Queenstown starting February 9.
The World Cup is scheduled to be held in New Zealand from March 4 to April 3. Commenting on the selection decision, head coach Bob Carter said, “We feel we have a balanced squad providing multiple options with bat and ball to cover the range of conditions we’re likely to face around the country.
“Naturally, there were some tough decisions and no doubt some disappointed players but as a selection group we felt this mix would give us the best chance.”
Sophie Devine will lead the squad, with Amy Satterthwaite named as her deputy. The duo along with Suzie Bates will make their fourth appearance at the World Cup. Wicket-keeper Katey Martin and experienced quick Lea Tahuhu are set to feature in their third World Cup.
The squad features three frontline spin options with Amelie Kerr and Frankie Mackay joined by young left-arm spinner Fran Jonas, who wasn’t born the last time the World Cup was held in New Zealand in 2000. Hannah Rowe, Rosemary Mair and Jess Kerr round out the seam bowling options, with Rowe making her second appearance at the 50-over showpiece. Maddy Green, Lauren Down and Brooke Halliday take the specialist batting spots in the squad, while Hayley Jensen fills the seam-bowling all-rounders role.
New Zealand squad: Sophie Devine (c), Amy Satterthwaite (vc), Suzie Bates, Maddy Green, Lauren Down, Brooke Halliday, Hayley Jensen, Fran Jonas, Jess Kerr, Amelia Kerr, Frankie Mackay, Rosemary Mair, Katey Martin, Hannah Rowe, Lea Tahuhu.
