New Zealand Women’s Squad Named for 2026 T20 World Cup

Wellington [New Zealand], April 29 (ANI): Nensi Patel and Izzy Sharp have been selected for their first World Cup appearances in New Zealand’s squad to defend their title at the 2026 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in England.

The team, led by captain Melie Kerr, includes ten players from New Zealand’s 2024 victory, such as Sophie Devine and Suzie Bates. Both Devine and Lea Tahuhu will retire after the tournament, ending their T20 careers. Bates, who is also retiring, will play her tenth World Cup.

Nensi Patel, a reliable domestic performer, earned her T20I debut earlier this year. Izzy Sharp, at just 21, is the youngest player and will make her senior World Cup debut after captaining New Zealand in the 2023 Under-19 Women’s T20 World Cup.

The squad features experienced players like Kerr, who broke records in 2024, and spin bowlers Bates, Flora Devonshire, and Patel. Bree Illing, Polly Inglis, and Devonshire will compete in their first T20 World Cup.

New Zealand coach Ben Sawyer praised the retiring trio for their dedication and said they would be motivated to end their careers on a high note. The team will face England, Ireland, Scotland, Sri Lanka, and the West Indies in Group 2 before the knockout stage.

The squad includes: Melie Kerr (c), Suzie Bates, Sophie Devine, Flora Devonshire, Izzy Gaze, Maddy Green, Brooke Halliday, Bree Illing, Polly Inglis, Jess Kerr, Rosemary Mair, Nensi Patel, Georgia Plimmer, Izzy Sharp, and Lea Tahuhu.