As the clock ticks toward the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025, hosted across India and Sri Lanka, a fresh wave of talent is poised to redefine New Zealand’s cricketing legacy. Unveiled today, September 11, 2025, at Epsom Girls’ Grammar School, the White Ferns’ 15-player squad introduces four debutants—Flora Devonshire, Polly Inglis, Bella James, and Bree Illing—ready to make their mark on this global stage. With captain Sophie Devine leading in her final ODI chapter and seasoned stars like Suzie Bates anchoring the side, this squad blends youthful dynamism with veteran grit.
Spotlight on the New Faces:
The White Ferns are buzzing with excitement as four players step into the international spotlight for the first time. Central Hinds’ Flora Devonshire, a 21-year-old left-arm spinning all-rounder, has turned heads with 18 wickets at an average of 17.5 in the HBJ Shield, including a standout five for 22. Her dual threat—266 runs, with unbeaten knocks of 73 and 72—adds a versatile edge to the lineup. Otago Sparks’ Polly Inglis, 26, brings batting depth and wicketkeeping support, her gritty 86 in the Sparks’ grand final victory showcasing her mettle. Teammate Bella James, also 26, has been a domestic powerhouse, helping Otago clinch back-to-back HBJ Shield titles and finishing as New Zealand A’s second-highest run-scorer against England A, just five runs behind opener Georgia Plimmer.
Then there’s Auckland Hearts’ Bree Illing, a 21-year-old left-arm seamer who exploded onto the scene with four wickets in her debut series against Sri Lanka in March. Her recent England A tour dominance—topping wicket charts with best figures of four for 64—signals her readiness to trouble top-order batters with swing. These players, all debuted last summer and honed on the June-July New Zealand A tour, embody a new era of White Ferns cricket.
A Captain’s Farewell and a Squad’s Balance
Sophie Devine’s retirement from ODIs post-tournament adds emotional weight to this campaign. With 152 ODIs under her belt, she’ll steer a squad featuring five-time World Cup veterans Suzie Bates (171 ODIs) and Lea Tahuhu (97 ODIs), alongside third-timers Maddy Green (81 ODIs) and Melie Kerr (77 ODIs). The inclusion of Eden Carson and Izzy Gaze, also first-timers at this 50-over World Cup, rounds out a balanced attack. Head coach Ben Sawyer praises the mix: “We’ve got the right blend to tackle diverse conditions and fierce opposition.”
Yet, selection wasn’t easy. Fran Jonas, Lauren Down, Molly Penfold, and Hannah Rowe miss out, with Devonshire’s all-round prowess edging out Jonas—a tough call Sawyer attributes to the depth of talent. He highlights the debutants’ skills: Illing’s new-ball pressure, Devonshire’s lower-order aggression, James’ 360-degree batting versatility, and Inglis’ determined glovework. This strategic depth could be the difference in India’s challenging pitches.
A World Cup Ready to Conquer
With no international matches since April, the White Ferns have laser-focused on physical and skill development—a preparation Sawyer calls the best in his four World Cup stints. The team departs for a pre-tournament camp in the UAE on September 13, facing England in two warm-up matches. This intensive buildup, culminating in the October 1 opener against Australia in Indore, positions them to hit the ground running.
Schedule
The schedule kicks off with warm-ups against India A (September 25) and India (September 27) in Bengaluru, followed by a packed tournament slate: Australia (October 1), South Africa (October 6), Bangladesh (October 10), Sri Lanka (October 14), Pakistan (October 18), India (October 23), and England (October 26). Semifinals loom on October 29-30, with the final set for November 2. Each match, starting at 10:30pm NZST (barring the England game at 6:30pm), promises high stakes.
Why This World Cup Matters for New Zealand Cricket
Beyond the debutants’ stories, this tournament is a chance to reclaim White Ferns’ dominance. With fresh talent challenging the status quo and veterans bowing out, the 2025 World Cup could mark a turning point. Will Devonshire’s spin, Illing’s swing, or James’ batting flair ignite a title run? As the squad prepares to face global giants, their unique blend of experience and innovation might just rewrite the script. Tune in to see if these rising stars can turn heads and lift the trophy.
