Key players miss out as New Zealand name squad for Zimbabwe

A host of experienced players have missed selection as New Zealand announced their white-ball squads for their upcoming series at home against Zimbabwe.

Veteran opener Suzie Bates (quadricep) and spinner Eden Carson (elbow) will miss the six white-ball contests (three T20Is and three ODIs) that commence in Hamilton on February 25, while former skipper Sophie Devine will also sit out the matches.

It allows the White Ferns to call up uncapped duo Nensi Patel and Kayley Knight for the first time and New Zealand coach Ben Sawyer expects the pair to perform well.

“Nensi and Kayley have both been solid performers over the last 12-18 months so it’s really pleasing for them to get this opportunity," Sawyer said.

“Nensi’s shown her value with bat and ball, and with Eden unavailable we’ll look to utilise her as a frontline spin option alongside Melie (Kerr).

“Kayley’s got a bright future ahead of her.

“She’s emerged as a potential frontline seam option who’s ready to test her skills at the next level.”

Star all-rounder Melie Kerr will captain the White Ferns across the six matches, with Sawyer admitting that the side has one eye on the upcoming ICC Women's T20 World Cup in England and Wales that commences in June.

“The team’s short- and long-term goals were front of mind when selecting the group," he added.

“We’ve prioritised players that could make the T20 World Cup squad in June, while also providing international exposure to high-potential talent whose skillsets align with long-term White Ferns planning.”

New Zealand squad: Flora Devonshire, Izzy Gaze, Maddy Green, Brooke Halliday, Bree Illing, Polly Inglis (T20Is only), Jess Kerr, Melie Kerr, Kayley Knight (T20Is only), Emma McLeod (ODIs only), Rosemary Mair, Nensi Patel, Molly Penfold (ODIs only) Georgia Plimmer, Izzy Sharp