New Zealand names ODI squad for India series after historic T20 World Cup win

New Zealand has revealed its 15-member squad for the upcoming ODI series against India, set to begin on October 24. The team is led by Sophie Devine, who recently guided the side to triumph in the Women's T20 World Cup 2024.

The squad remains largely unchanged, with only two players, Rosemary Mair and Leigh Kasperek, missing out. Batter Lauren Down, who returned to international cricket in July after a maternity break, has been included in the squad.

New Zealand aims to continue its momentum after the T20 World Cup victory, where they defeated South Africa in the final to claim their first-ever cricket World Cup title, for both men and women. The ODI series will serve as an important preparation for the next ODI World Cup, scheduled to take place in India in 2025.

The squad is filled with experience, featuring veterans like Suzie Bates and Lea Tahuhu. Alongside them are promising young players such as Eden Carson, Izzy Gaze, and Georgia Plimmer, who showcased their skills during the T20 World Cup. Carson impressed with her off-spin bowling, while Plimmer provided solid starts at the top of the order. Wicketkeeper Izzy Gaze also contributed significantly with her batting in the lower order.

One standout player from the World Cup, Amelia Kerr, will be a key member of the ODI squad. Kerr was named Player of the Match in the final and also won the Player of the Tournament award. She finished as the highest wicket-taker of the tournament, claiming 15 wickets at an impressive average of 7.33. Additionally, she scored 135 runs, making her one of the top performers.

Polly Inglis has received her first international call-up as the second wicketkeeper alongside Izzy Gaze.

The three ODIs against India will be played on October 24, 27, and 29 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. As both teams prepare for the next ICC tournament, this series promises to be a significant challenge for the White Ferns.