Devine to lead White Ferns in Women’s World Cup 2025

Veteran all-rounder Sophie Devine will captain New Zealand in the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup 2025, set to be her final 50-over assignment. The White Ferns begin their campaign against defending champions Australia on October 1 in Indore.

Fresh faces in the squad

The 15-member squad includes four first-time World Cup selections — Flora Devonshire, Polly Inglis, Bella James and Bree Illing. All four impressed in domestic cricket and during the New Zealand ‘A’ tour of England earlier this year. Devonshire’s all-round efforts in the HBJ Shield and Illing’s left-arm pace stood out among the newcomers.

Experienced core remains vital

While the fresh call-ups add depth, New Zealand will rely heavily on its seasoned campaigners. Devine and Suzie Bates will feature in their fifth World Cup, while pacer Lea Tahuhu prepares for her fourth. Amelia Kerr and Maddy Green return for their third appearances, forming the team’s experienced backbone.

Preparation for subcontinental challenge

Ahead of the global event, the White Ferns will play warm-up matches in Bengaluru to adapt to Indian conditions. The selectors, however, left out Fran Jonas, Lauren Down, Molly Penfold and Hannah Rowe, who were part of the home season but did not make the cut.

New Zealand squad for ICC Women’s World Cup 2025

Sophie Devine (c), Suzie Bates, Eden Carson, Flora Devonshire, Izzy Gaze, Maddy Green, Brooke Halliday, Bree Illing, Polly Inglis, Bella James, Jess Kerr, Amelia Kerr, Rosemary Mair, Georgia Plimmer, Lea Tahuhu.