First ODI call-up for fast bowler as New Zealand face Proteas challenge

Fast bowler Kayley Knight has been picked in New Zealand's squad to face South Africa in their three-match ODI series, beginning on Sunday.

The three matches are part of the 2025-2029 ICC Women's Championship cycle, part of the qualification path to Cricket World Cup 2029.

Knight made her T20I debut last month against Zimbabwe, claiming 2/25 on debut after playing a key role of claiming One Day domestic silverwear for Northern Brave.

Knight in T20I action against Zimbabwe earlier in the summer /// Getty Images

Melie Kerr leads the ODI unit after after claiming 16 wickets in New Zealand's three ODIs against Zimbabe, including two five-wicket hauls and the White Ferns' best ODI figures in history of 7/34 in Dunedin.

The side is also bolstered by the inclusions of Suzie Bates, Flora Devonshire, and Georgia Plimmer, who all return from injury for the ODI series, replacing Emma McLeod, Polly Inglis, and Bella James. Knight enters the squad for Molly Penfold.

Head coach Ben Sawyer is excited by the quick bowler's inclusion.

“It’s great to call Kayley up for her first ODI series,” Sawyer said.

“Kayley's got good pace and control, and a short ball that regularly challenges batters.

“It’s been a packed backend to the summer for the White Ferns and we’re looking forward to wrapping the season up with another competitive series."

The ODI series begins at Hagley Oval on March 29, followed by the final two outings at the Basin Reserve on April 1 and April 4.

The ODIs are New Zealand's final home summer matches for 2025/26.

New Zealand ODI squad v South Africa

Melie Kerr (c), Suzie Bates, Flora Devonshire, Izzy Gaze, Maddy Green, Brooke Halliday, Bree Illing, Jess Kerr, Kayley Knight, Rosemary Mair, Nensi Patel, Georgia Plimmer, Izzy Sharp