New Zealand Unveils Squad for ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026
New Zealand Announces 15-Member Squad for ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026
Ahead of the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026, New Zealand has revealed its 15-member squad. This time, the team showcases a unique blend of youthful energy and seasoned players. While some newcomers will be making their World Cup debuts, a few veterans are set to bid farewell to international cricket after this tournament. Amelia Kerr will lead the team, having previously earned the Player of the Tournament title in the 2024 World Cup with 15 wickets. The squad includes 10 players from the 2024 championship team, all geared up to defend their title in England.
Exciting New Additions to the Team
This year, off-spin all-rounder Nancy Patel and batter Izzy Sharp have earned their spots in the World Cup squad for the first time. Both players have caught the selectors' attention with their outstanding performances in domestic cricket. Nancy Patel made her T20 international debut against Zimbabwe earlier this year, impressively taking three wickets in her second match. Meanwhile, 21-year-old Izzy Sharp, the youngest player on the team, captained New Zealand in the U19 World Cup in 2023 and is now ready to make her senior World Cup debut after being the top scorer in the 202526 Super Smash.
Farewell to Three Key Players
The upcoming World Cup will mark the end of the T20 careers for two prominent New Zealand players, Sophie Devine and Lea Tahuhu. Both have already retired from ODI cricket, making this tournament their final international appearance. Additionally, experienced batter Suzie Bates will also retire from international cricket following this event.
In the spin department, the team will rely on captain Kerr, Suzie Bates, Flora Devonshire, and Nancy Patel, who are expected to play crucial roles in England's conditions. New Zealand has been placed in Group 2 alongside England, Ireland, Scotland, Sri Lanka, and the West Indies. Prior to the tournament, the team will play practice matches against Bangladesh and South Africa on June 6 and June 9.
New Zealand's Schedule for T20 World Cup 2026
- West Indies vs New Zealand, June 14, Southampton
- New Zealand vs Sri Lanka, June 17, Southampton
- New Zealand vs Ireland, June 20, Southampton
- New Zealand vs Scotland, June 23, Bristol
- England vs New Zealand, June 28, The Oval
New Zealand Squad for ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026
The squad includes: Amelia Kerr, Suzie Bates, Sophie Devine, Flora Devonshire, Izzy Gage, Maddie Green, Brooke Holiday, Bree Iling, Polly Inglis, Jess Kerr, Rosemary Meyer, Nancy Patel, Georgia Plimmer, Izzy Sharp, Lea Tahuhu.