Polly Inglis Receives Maiden Call-up for India ODIs
New Zealand wicketkeeper Polly Inglis has been called up for the first time to the national squad for the three-match ODI series against India, beginning on Thursday, October 24, at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Earlier this year, Inglis secured a central contract with New Zealand Cricket (NZC) and now plays for Otago Sparks in the Women’s Super Smash. Her strong performances in domestic cricket, including scoring 324 runs in the Hallyburton Johnstone Shield 2023-24 at an average of 54, have earned her this opportunity.
Changes in the Squad: Mair and Kasperek Left Out
While Inglis is a new addition, the squad features only two changes from New Zealand’s triumphant Women’s T20 World Cup squad. Rosemary Mair, the pacer who played a crucial role in their World Cup victory, has been rested to manage her workload after a serious back injury. Off-spinner Leigh Kasperek, another key member of the World Cup-winning squad, did not retain her spot for the ODI series. Batter Lauren Down, however, has returned to the squad after her maternity leave.
Sophie Devine to Lead White Ferns
Sophie Devine, the long-time captain of the New Zealand women’s cricket team, will once again lead the White Ferns. Devine, who recently stepped down as captain of the T20 side after leading them to their first-ever Women’s T20 World Cup win, will continue to guide the ODI team. Experienced players such as Suzie Bates and Lea Tahuhu, both vital to the team’s success, remain part of the side as they prepare for the series against India.
Inglis’ Domestic Success Paves the Way
Polly Inglis has earned her place in the squad after impressive performances in domestic competitions. With 324 runs at an average of 54 and a strike rate of 80, she finished the Hallyburton Johnstone Shield 2023–24 as the second-highest run scorer. Inglis also made a significant contribution in the New Zealand A series against England A, scoring a century to help the White Ferns secure a 2-1 series victory.
Touring India: A Special Experience
Head coach Ben Sawyer is excited about the upcoming series, describing India as “one of the great experiences in world cricket.” He praised Inglis’ rise through the ranks, stating, “She put her hand up in last season’s Hallyburton Johnstone Shield one-day competition and throughout the New Zealand A series against England.” Sawyer emphasized the significance of touring India and the challenge it presents for the White Ferns.
Women’s Championship Context
This three-match ODI series against India is part of the Women’s Championship, where New Zealand currently holds the 6th spot on the points table. The series is critical for the White Ferns as they aim to secure direct qualification for the 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup. Along with the hosts India, the top five teams in the championship will automatically go to the competition.
Next Challenge: Australia Series
Following the India series, New Zealand will face their trans-Tasman rivals, Australia, in another three-match ODI series. With these upcoming challenges, New Zealand’s players will be looking to put in strong performances, especially with World Cup qualification on the line.
Also Read:https://cricator.com/ishan-kishan-joins-india-a-squad-gaikwad-captain/
New Zealand Squad for ODIs Against India
The New Zealand squad for the ODI series against India includes:
Sophie Devine (c), Suzie Bates, Eden Carson, Lauren Down, Izzy Gaze (wk), Maddy Green, Brooke Halliday, Polly Inglis (wk), Fran Jonas, Jess Kerr, Amelia Kerr, Molly Penfold, Georgia Plimmer, Hannah Rowe, Lea Tahuhu.
