New Zealand Star All-Rounder Amelia Kerr has been ruled out of the two remaining ODIs against India due to a quadriceps muscle tear. Kerr picked up an injury in the First ODI which India won by 59 runs and recovery time will be of three weeks. New Zealand won't name any replacement for her.

This injury will lead her to miss WBBL as the tournament starts on Sunday. Sydney Sixers signed Amelia Kerr as a platinum-category pick but she will miss 8 out of their 10 games even if she recovers in three weeks.

According to an NZC release, scans conducted on Friday morning confirmed that Amelia sustained a grade-one quadriceps tear. She is set to return home on Sunday to begin her rehabilitation.

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"We're really gutted for Melie," New Zealand head coach Ben Sawyer said. "Injuries are always a challenging time for a player and we know how disappointed she is to not be able to play these games. "Everyone knows how much of an integral part of this team Melie is so we'll certainly miss her but we're wishing her a speedy recovery."

Amelia Kerr played an important role in the New Zealand T20 World Cup winning campaign. She was the top-wicket taker in the tournament with 15 wickets. Kerr continued her fine form in the ODI Series too as she scalped 4 wickets for 42 runs and scored 25*(23). The remaining two ODIs will also be played in Ahmedabad on October 27 and 29.

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Kerr's absence might hurt New Zealand in the Women's ODI Championship, where top-six teams will get direct qualification for the ODI World Cup in 2025. New Zealand is currently placed sixth out of 10 teams and will next play Australia in December.

After intense and scintillating clashes with the best women's teams in the cricket space, the 2024 Women's T20 World Cup draws its curtains with New Zealand scalping their first-ever title against a promising South African side. In summary of their experience and the emerging players' squad, the White Ferns have surpassed the ten robust arsenals needed to win this tournament after being two-time runners-up.

As mentioned earlier, the tournament has seen the clash of best vs best, with many promising players displaying impeccable calibre and intent. By this, all these players deserve to be a part of one team, which implies their performance. That said, here's the Best Playing XI, the 2024 Women's T20 World Cup edition. 

1.Laura Wolvaardt (South Africa)

Laura Wolvaardt has been the face of South Africa's top-order batting, with her captaincy skills being the cherry on the top. Leading her Proteas side for the first time and leading to their second-consecutive Women's T20 World Cup is no minor deal. Her stint of 223 runs in six matches, with a half-century and an average of over 45, has made her the highest run-scorer of the ninth edition of the tournament.

2. Tazmin Brits (South Africa)

Runners-up South Africa's major positive takeaway would be their batting performance, and it is no surprise that the openers have created the foundation for it. With the opening captain, Laura Wolvaardt, the second opener, also fulfilled the expectations in the form of Tazmin Brits. She helped bolster the batting and gave the team the attacking start desired. In her six-match tournament stint, she has made 187 runs, averaging over 38 and one half-century.

3. Danielle Wyatt-Hodge (England)

Dannielle Wyatt has associated with the women's English side as a reliable run-getter. As it implies, she has helped the side make some runs in their group-stage end run. She has scored 151 runs in just four matches, at a commendable average of over 50.

4. Sophie Devine (New Zealand) (Captain)

New Zealand captain Sophie Devine is one of the few women's cricket circle players representing her national side in all the Women's T20 World Cup tournaments. As an experienced campaigner, Devine ended her captaincy stint on a high by leading their White Ferns side to their first-ever Women's T20 World Cup title. Making her the captain of this Best XI squad is a no-brainer. She has made 116 runs in six matches at an average of over 30 in the tournament.

5. Amelia Kerr (New Zealand)

Amelia Kerr has got her recognition for her all-rounder ability. But, this time, her bowling expertise did the trick for the triumphant New Zealand side in the tournament. Kerr has helped her side scalp crucial wickets at the right game time. Being the highest wicket-taker of the tournament, she has taken 15 wickets in just six matches, with one four-wicket haul and made 135 runs

6. Alyssa Healy (Australia) (Wicketkeeper)

Though Alyssa Healy got injured mid-way through the tournament, Alyssa Healy deserves to be on this list. Dealing with the slow and turning pitches, she has made vital decisions in restricting the opposition batters to minimal scores, considering the intensity of the T20I format. In her short three-match stint, she has made 67 runs but has a noteworthy strike rate and an average of over 145 and 34, respectively.

Also Read: Women's T20 World Cup 2024: Flop Playing XI of the Tournament

7. Afy Fletcher (West Indies)

Though the 2016 West Indies champions couldn't convert a triumph after a stellar performance, Afy Fletcher is one of the players behind the Carribean's side performance. The right-arm leg spinner dominated in the spin-friendly conditions of UAE and scalped ten wickets in just five matches.

8. Annabel Sutherland (Australia)

Annabel Sutherland did her usual business of being the go-to spin option for the Aussies side. Sutherland deserves to be the second-leading spinner, thanks to her performance in the tournament. She has taken nine wickets in five matches, signifying her impact with the ball and spin.

9. Rosemary Mair (New Zealand)

Rosemary Mair from the champion New Zealand side did the trick by delivering quick and pace deliveries to the batters. In just six appearances of the tournament, she has scalped ten wickets at an economy of just five, with one four-wicket haul.

10. Nonukuleko Mlaba (South Africa)

Nonukuleko Mlaba from the South African side would help robusten this Best XI spinmeister's attack. Known for delivering slow, yet confusing and over-the-top deliveries, Mlaba has scalped 12 wickets in just six matches at an economy of just 5.66.

11. Megan Schutt (Australia)

Megan Schutt symbolises consistency for the Women's Australia pace department. She has been an integral part of Australia's seam assault with her huge inswingers and leg cutter as her signature deliveries, which can be vividly seen in her tournament stint. She has taken eight wickets in five outings at a praiseworthy economy of just four.

India failed to bring their best game to the UAE and was eliminated from the Women's T20 World Cup 2024. India was projected to advance from the "Group of Death," which included reigning champions Australia and two-time finalists New Zealand, developing Sri Lanka, and Pakistan. However, Harmanpreet Kaur's team was only able to win the matches that were expected of them, and they were unable to compete with Australia and New Zealand.

Citing several reasons behind such a forgettable run, the Indian Women's side turned out to be a disappointment yet again, especially when they possessed the calibre to end up in the game's final stages. Here are the three probable significant factors behind the Indian women's side group-stage end of the 2024 ICC Women's T20 World Cup.

Time for a captain swap?

One of the primary reasons behind such a downfall would be Harmanpreet Kaur's mediocre captaincy effort. Kaur has been in charge of the Indian squad since being appointed in 2016. While the unit has been a regular late-season fixture in competitions, including a few final appearances, team management may contemplate a swap ahead of the important ODI World Cup in 2025 happening in India.

From juggling around the No.3 spot in their batting unit to not displaying a robust game calibre of the game by the youngsters, the captain acts as a face behind such responsibilities. Though she would be captaining the team in the upcoming bilateral series against New Zealand, BCCI can make a crucial decision about a captain change, especially when they have young and promising contenders in their arsenal for this spot. 

Lacklustre performance across all the departments.

Another reason for the Indian Women's Team's underperformance was the lack of a standout display from all cricketing departments. Experienced hitters like Smriti Mandhana and Harmanpreet Kaur, among others, failed to provide India an advantage with the bat, losing wickets at critical periods of their innings throughout the tournament. Shafali Verma's flamboyant attitude as an opener also lacked effectiveness.

While misfields and lost catches have been regular for the Women in Blue recently, the opposition were automatically granted an advantage, which also cost India the matches. Even the bowler's side wasn't able to unleash their X-factor, as they conceded a lot of runs during the death overs.

Also Read: Women's T20 World Cup 2024: Final, South Africa vs New Zealand - Key players to watch

Complete chaos with no intent and clarity.

As mentioned earlier, the Indian Women's team's performance was marred by a lack of clarity about player roles and tactics. This lack of intent and strategy was the most evident issue with India's campaign. It's about time the team got a reality check. To remedy the gaps in preparation, execution, and strategy, players and coaches must reflect, accept responsibility for their failures, and work harder.

India's Women's T20 World Cup performance raises further issues about the team's administration and leadership. The team's chances of healing from this painful event improve the sooner they admit their mistakes. India must prepare for both white-ball versions, with the impending 2025 Women's World Cup scheduled to happen amongst their home fans.

The first innings between India and New Zealand at the Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 saw moments of controversy and strong bowling from India after an explosive start by the Kiwis. New Zealand reached 139/3 at the end of 18 overs, setting up what could be a thrilling second half of the match in Dubai.

Amelia Kerr’s controversial run-out stirs debate

A significant moment occurred during the 14th over when a controversy erupted over a run-out involving New Zealand batter Amelia Kerr. After hitting a delivery from Deepti Sharma towards long-off, Kerr completed a single with Sophie Devine at the non-striker's end. Indian captain Harmanpreet Kaur collected the ball but did not throw it as the umpire had seemingly signaled the end of the over. However, in a surprising move, Devine attempted a second run, prompting Kaur to throw the ball to the striker’s end, where Kerr was adjudged out. After much deliberation, the umpires declared it not out, as the ball was considered dead. This decision left Harmanpreet visibly unhappy and sparked discussions among the players.

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India’s bowling comeback and fielding errors

Despite the controversy, India's bowlers made a strong comeback, especially after the initial onslaught from New Zealand’s top order. Arundhati Reddy and Asha Sobhana each picked up crucial wickets to slow New Zealand’s momentum. After dismissing Georgia Plimmer and Suzie Bates, India regained control in the middle overs with tight bowling and increased pressure on the Kiwi batters.

However, New Zealand capitalized on some lapses in India’s fielding. Smriti Mandhana and wicketkeeper Richa Ghosh missed opportunities that could have halted New Zealand’s steady scoring. Still, India managed to restrict the Black Ferns, thanks to disciplined spells from the likes of Asha Sobhana.

In a tough outing for India, Deepti Sharma registered her name in an unwanted record during the ongoing Women's T20 World Cup 2024 clash against New Zealand. Conceding 0/45, she now holds the second spot for most runs conceded by an Indian bowler in a Women's T20 World Cup match. This follows Shikha Pandey, who gave away 0/52 against Australia in 2020. Deepti's performance adds to her earlier figures of 1/39 against Pakistan in 2023, highlighting a challenging period for India's bowling attack.

In today's match New Zealand women's team has posted a solid total of 160/4 in their allotted 20 overs against India in their T20 World Cup 2024 opener at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. On a surface that appeared favorable for batters, New Zealand showcased a balanced approach, with key contributions from their top and middle order.

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.

NZ-W vs SL-W, 17th Match Preview

Match 17 of the 2023 Women’s T20 World Cup sees New Zealand Women take on Sri Lanka Women at Boland Park on Sunday evening. New Zealand Women lost their first two games but beat Bangladesh Women on Friday. Sri Lanka Women were thrashed by 10 wickets by Australia Women in their first defeat on Thursday. New Zealand Women kept their faint hopes alive of progressing in the tournament with a much improved performance on Friday. They showed plenty of pride and do have many talented players. Sri Lanka Women will want to put in a similar display to what served them so well against South Africa Women.

NZ-W vs SL-W, 17th Match Details

New Zealand-W vs Sri Lanka-W – 17th Match

Venue: Boland Park – Paarl

Date & Time: 19th February 2023 at 10:30 PM IST 

Live Streaming: Star Sports Network

NZ-W vs SL-W, 17th Match Pitch Report

Some of the best figures on this pitch in this competition have come from the spin bowlers and they will once again get assistance from the surface in this game.

Injury News

No Injury. Will be added when there is an update

Also Read:MUL vs PES Dream11 Prediction, Fantasy Cricket Tips, Probable Playing XI, Pitch Report & Injury Updates For 5th Match

NZ-W vs SL-W, 17th Match Probable Playing XIs:

New Zealand-W Probable Playing XIs

Bernadine Bezuidenhout (wk), Suzie Bates, Amelia Kerr, Sophie Devine (c), Maddy Green, Georgia Plimmer, Hannah Rowe, Lea Tahuhu, Jess Kerr, Molly Penfold, Eden Carson

Sri Lanka-W Probable Playing XIs

Harshitha Samarawickrama, Chamari Athapaththu (c), Vishmi Gunaratne, Oshadi Ranasinghe, Anushka Sanjeewani (wk), Nilakshi de Silva, Ama Kanchana, Malsha Shehani, Sugandika Kumari, Inoka Ranaweera, Achini Kulasuriya

Topmost Picks for NZ-W vs SL-W Dream11 Prediction, 17th Match:

Top Picks – New Zealand-W

• Suzie Bates- after failing to score in the games against South Africa Women and Australia Women, the experienced opener hit seven fours and one six in her unbeaten innings on Friday.

• Amelia Kerr- the 22 year old all-rounder very rarely fails to contribute with both bat and ball for New Zealand Women. She has four wickets across the competition so far.

Top Picks – Sri Lanka-W

• Chamari Athapaththu- the captain has scored over 100 runs in the tournament and is Sri Lanka Women’s most consistent batter.

• Oshadi Ranasinghe- the 36 year old off-spinner went wicketless against Australia Women but had picked up five wickets across the first two games of the tournament.

Suggested Playing XI N0.1 for NZ-W vs SL-W Dream11 Team:

Maddy Green, Bernadine Bezuidenhout, Anushka Sanjeewani, Suzie Bates(C), Harshitha Samarawickrama, Chamari Athapaththu, Sophie Devine, Lea Tahuhu, Oshadi Ranasinghe(VC), Inoka Ranaweera, Eden Carson

Suggested Playing XI N0.2 for NZ-W vs SL-W Dream11 Team:

Maddy Green, Bernadine Bezuidenhout, Nilakshi de Silva, Suzie Bates, Harshitha Samarawickrama, Chamari Athapaththu(C), Amelia Kerr(VC), Oshadi Ranasinghe, Inoka Ranaweera, Eden Carson, Jess Kerr

Captain and Vice-Captain Options:

Captain – Suzie Bates, Chamari Athapaththu

Vice-captain – Oshadi Ranasinghe, Amelia Kerr

Wicketkeeper – Maddy Green

NZ-W vs SL-W 17th Match Probable Winners:

It will be interesting to see how Sri Lanka Women react to their 10-wicket defeat to Australia Women on Thursday. Before that game, they had surprised many with their win over South Africa Women in their opener and were too strong for Bangladesh Women. Sri Lanka Women have some good experienced players but New Zealand Women have players with more talent across their team. New Zealand Women finally managed to snap out of their poor batting showing and displayed just how strong a batting unit they have in their last game. If Suzie Bates gets going again then she will be very hard to stop. Considering the team combination, New Zealand-W is expected to win this match.