For a side with as rich a history as New Zealand, the 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup brings both pressure and promise. Champions in 2000 but winless since, the White Ferns arrive in India and Sri Lanka hoping to convert their T20 World Cup triumph in 2024 into momentum on the 50-over stage.
Captain Sophie Devine, who has confirmed this will be her final ODI World Cup, leads a squad blending seasoned veterans with youthful talent. Alongside her is Suzie Bates, another stalwart likely in her last major campaign. Amelia Kerr stands as the heartbeat of the team – a world-class all-rounder capable of turning matches – while younger names like Georgia Plimmer bring fresh energy.
Key Context
- Spin & Subcontinental challenges: Conditions in India and Sri Lanka will demand patience and adaptability against spin on slower pitches.
- Depth tested: With frequent travel and hot weather, squad rotation will play a major role.
- Legacy at stake: This could be a final shot at glory for Devine and Bates, making New Zealand desperate for a deep run.
How They Qualified
New Zealand booked direct entry by finishing sixth in the ICC Women’s ODI Championship (2022–25). It was a patchy campaign: nine wins in 26 matches, including series victories over Pakistan, Bangladesh, and West Indies, but losses to Sri Lanka, South Africa, India, Australia, and England. Their qualification came only on net run rate, just ahead of Bangladesh.
Squad
Sophie Devine (c), Suzie Bates, Eden Carson, Flora Devonshire, Izzy Gaze, Maddy Green, Brooke Halliday, Bree Illing, Polly Inglis, Bella James, Amelia Kerr, Jess Kerr, Rosemary Mair, Georgia Plimmer, Lea Tahuhu
Coach Ben Sawyer has built a side around trusted seniors and promising new names. Devine and Bates anchor the batting, Amelia Kerr provides balance, and the seam-spin mix of Lea Tahuhu, Jess Kerr, and Eden Carson ensures variety in the attack.
Player to Watch – Georgia Plimmer
At 21, Plimmer represents the future of New Zealand batting. Her composed 112 against Sri Lanka earlier this year underlined her potential. With Devine and Bates nearing the end, Plimmer has a golden chance to emerge as the next cornerstone of the White Ferns’ lineup.
Marquee Match – vs India, October 23 at Navi Mumbai
Facing the hosts in front of a packed DY Patil Stadium will be the ultimate test of composure. India’s spinners will probe every weakness, but if New Zealand can spring an upset, it could spark the momentum required for a semifinal push.
2022 World Cup Recap
New Zealand endured heartbreak at home in 2022, finishing sixth and exiting in the league stage despite flashes of brilliance.
Full Schedule
- Oct 1 – vs Australia, Indore (3:00 PM)
- Oct 6 – vs South Africa, Indore (3:00 PM)
- Oct 10 – vs Bangladesh, Guwahati (3:00 PM)
- Oct 14 – vs Sri Lanka, Colombo (3:00 PM)
- Oct 18 – vs Pakistan, Colombo (3:00 PM)
- Oct 23 – vs India, Navi Mumbai (3:00 PM)
- Oct 26 – vs England, Visakhapatnam (11:00 AM)