New Zealand’s women’s cricket team is set to gain a significant boost with the return of fast bowler Rosemary Mair for the T20 World Cup 2024. Mair, who had been sidelined due to a back injury sustained during the home series against England in March, is making a comeback just in time for the tournament. Her return strengthens New Zealand’s pace attack, which already features veterans like Lea Tahuhu, Jess Kerr, Hannah Rowe, and Molly Penfold. Mair, with 18 wickets from 24 T20Is, will be key in a squad brimming with experience.

In addition to Mair, captain Sophie Devine and Suzie Bates are poised to play their ninth T20 World Cup, a remarkable achievement that highlights their consistency at the international level. The duo has been part of every T20 World Cup since its inception, and their wealth of experience will be crucial as New Zealand gears up for the intense competition in the UAE this October.

Balanced squad with pace, spin, and allround options

New Zealand’s squad for the World Cup is notably well-rounded. Alongside the pace attack, fast-bowling allrounders Suzie Bates and Brooke Halliday provide depth and versatility. In the spin department, New Zealand will rely on the skills of Leigh Kasperek, Melie Kerr, Fran Jonas, and Eden Carson, making for a formidable spin lineup that adds balance to the team.

"I'm really pleased with this squad; I think these are our best 15 players to adapt to what will likely be varied conditions," New Zealand head coach Ben Sawyer said. "

Izzy Gaze, the wicketkeeper-batter, stands out as the only member of the squad who has not played in a T20 World Cup before. The rest of the team is packed with experience, with players like Devine and Bates bringing valuable knowledge from both international World Cups and franchise leagues. According to the team, they plan to lean heavily on this experience as they face tough competition in the upcoming tournament.

Preparation tour and world cup fixtures

In preparation for the World Cup, New Zealand will embark on a three-match T20I tour of Australia. The same squad will play against Australia on September 19, 22, and 24 in Mackay and Brisbane. Following this, New Zealand will face South Africa and England in warm-up matches on September 29 and October 1, respectively, as they fine-tune their strategies ahead of the World Cup.

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New Zealand’s first match in the T20 World Cup will be on October 4 against India. Apart from India, their group includes strong contenders like Australia, Sri Lanka, and Pakistan. This World Cup will also be significant for Sophie Devine, as it marks her last assignment as New Zealand's T20I captain, making it a memorable chapter in her illustrious career.

With a combination of experience, balance, and a determined approach, New Zealand’s squad is set to make a strong bid for the Women’s T20 World Cup title in 2024.