Experience to the fore as New Zealand name squad for South Africa
Fran Jonas, Georgia Plimmer and Izzy Gaze have already made a total of 44 international appearances for their country and were among the 15 players named by New Zealand on Tuesday for the inaugural Under 19 event.
Sara McGlashan will coach the White Ferns during the 15-day event that runs from January 14-29 and the Former New Zealand player is excited by the challenge that awaits.
"I’d like to congratulate all the players selected," McGlashan said.
"Representing your country at a World Cup is a huge honour and I know the entire squad is excited about the opportunity ahead, especially with it being the first tournament of its kind for women.
"I think we’ve got a strong squad for this World Cup with a nice mix of youth and experience.
"For many of the players, this will be their first time travelling overseas to play cricket, so they’ll certainly benefit from the experience of Fran, Georgia and Izzy, the natural leaders in this group."
New Zealand are drawn in Group C alongside Ireland, Indonesia and West Indies and require a top three finish in their group to progress to the Super Six stage of the tournament.
"We’ve obviously got a variety of experience levels within the squad and will be putting a high priority on everyone looking to learn and grow their games," McGlashan added.
"While achieving success on the field is important – we’ll also be taking a holistic approach to the tournament in the hope of developing these girls further as people as well as players.
"The tournament will be an incredible experience both on and off the field and one these players will never forget so we want to ensure we create a fun environment, which allows them to really enjoy the experience."
New Zealand's first match in South Africa comes up against Indonesia at the NW University Oval in Potchefstroom on January 15.
New Zealand squad: Olivia Anderson, Anna Browning, Kate Chandler, Natasha Codyre, Isabella Gaze, Antonia Hamilton, Abigail Hotton, Breearne Illing, Fran Jonas, Kayley Knight, Paige Loggenberg, Emma McLeod, Georgia Plimmer, Izzy Sharp, Tash Wakelin.