New Delhi, March 9 (NationPress) The New Zealand women's cricket team welcomes back Suzie Bates, Sophie Devine, Georgia Plimmer, and Flora Devonshire for their forthcoming five-match T20I series against South Africa.

According to a statement from New Zealand Cricket, Bates (quad injury), Devonshire (broken finger), and Plimmer (shoulder injury) have successfully completed their rehabilitation and are set to participate in the series, which kicks off at Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui this Sunday.

This series will unfold as a series of double-header game-days.

Devine is also poised to make her comeback to the squad for the first time since the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup in India last October, as the New Zealand side gears up to defend their title ahead of the upcoming ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in England later this year.

Head Coach Ben Sawyer expressed enthusiasm over the return of Bates and Devine, emphasizing the positive impact their experience will have on the team. “We’re eager to have Suzie and Sophie back for this crucial series,” he stated.

“Their on-field excellence is undeniable, and their cultural contributions to the team are equally significant. I'm looking forward to their integration with our newer squad members.”

Furthermore, Sawyer voiced his satisfaction with Plimmer's return. “It was unfortunate for Georgia to miss out on much of the Zimbabwe series due to her shoulder issue, so the entire team is delighted to have her back.

“Her role at the top of the batting order is vital, and it’s fantastic to see her return as we continue our preparations for the World Cup later in the year.”

Regarding Devonshire, who was sidelined from the recent Zimbabwe series due to a hand injury shortly after missing the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup, Sawyer expressed empathy. “Flora has faced consecutive injuries that have kept her out of action for some time, which is tough for any player.

“However, it’s encouraging to have her back in the mix, ready to contribute when called upon.”

The squad comprises 15 players, with Bree Illing and Polly Inglis making way for Devonshire and Lea Tahuhu of the Canterbury Magicians following the first two T20Is.

Coach Sawyer explained that these selections aim to optimize preparation for the forthcoming ICC Women’s T20 World Cup. “Given that we can only field 13 players at a time, we are making some adjustments to ensure more players gain experience in what is a significant series leading up to the World Cup.”

The White Ferns will partake in this five-match series as part of a schedule of double-headers alongside the Blackcaps and Proteas.

The initial double-header will take place at Bay Oval in Tauranga this Sunday.

New Zealand Women’s Squad:

Melie Kerr (C), Suzie Bates, Sophie Devine, Flora Devonshire, Izzy Gaze, Maddy Green, Brooke Halliday, Bree Illing, Polly Inglis, Jess Kerr, Rosemary Mair, Nensi Patel, Georgia Plimmer, Izzy Sharp, Lea Tahuhu