Will Suzie Bates Lead New Zealand to World Cup Glory in Dubai's Heat?
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Synopsis
As the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup approaches, veteran batter Suzie Bates looks to a training camp in Dubai to prepare the New Zealand team for the humid conditions. With her fifth World Cup on the horizon, Bates reflects on her journey and the promising talent within the squad, hoping to replicate past successes.
Key Takeaways
- Suzie Bates is preparing for her fifth World Cup.
- The New Zealand White Ferns are training in Dubai to adapt to the heat.
- New talents like Bree Illing and Eden Carson are emerging.
- The team has fond memories of their previous successes in Dubai.
- This World Cup is expected to be highly competitive.
New Delhi, Sep 18 (NationPress) Experienced New Zealand batter Suzie Bates is counting on a pre-tournament training camp in Dubai to assist the White Ferns in adapting to the hot and humid conditions anticipated at the upcoming ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup, which kicks off on September 30 in India and Sri Lanka.
The team arrived in Dubai earlier this week, where they are set to compete in two informal warm-up matches against England. For Bates and her teammates, returning to the city has stirred up cherished memories of their inaugural ICC Women’s T20 World Cup title last year.
“We have enjoyed coming back here after nearly a year,” Bates shared with ICC Digital. “Reflecting on the past year and that really unforgettable time for many in this group. We have some fresh faces now, so we’ve playfully suggested that if we clinch this World Cup, we might have to return to Dubai for a celebration.”
At 38, this tournament will be Bates's fifth World Cup appearance since her debut at the 2009 edition in Australia. She joins an elite group of players who have participated in five consecutive tournaments, including teammate Sophie Devine, Ellyse Perry (Australia), Marizanne Kapp (South Africa), and Harmanpreet Kaur (India).
“These events represent the pinnacle for me,” Bates stated. “I feel like each World Cup has marked a different phase of my career, starting out so naively in 2009 as an 18 or 19-year-old and not truly knowing what to expect, to now witnessing the evolution of the game where every team believes they can win the tournament and has formed highly competitive sides.”
“The promotion of the game is now fully professional, unlike the amateur era back in 2009. I’ve experienced being captain and not being captain, and it has presented various challenges. They all seem to blend together, and you look back, and it’s hard to believe how swiftly time has passed. However, I expect this tournament will be one of the most competitive I’ve ever participated in.”
Bates recognized that much would hinge on her and Devine, but expressed eagerness for the next generation of New Zealand players.
“Eden Carson was phenomenal at the T20 World Cup, and she’s still a young talent; Georgia Plimmer had a fantastic tournament and led with the bat, and we have a promising prospect in left-armer Bree Illing,” she noted.
“We haven’t had a left-arm seamer in the New Zealand squad since Sian Ruck, which was quite a while ago. It will be thrilling to see her bowl and swing the ball. We also have a talented all-rounder in Flora Devonshire.
“Even though I’ve participated in five World Cups, I’m just as thrilled for their first one, and I hope they embrace every moment while I share some insights about World Cups with them.”
New Zealand squad: Sophie Devine (c), Suzie Bates, Eden Carson, Flora Devonshire, Izzy Gaze, Maddy Green, Brooke Halliday, Bree Illing, Polly Inglis, Bella James, Melie Kerr, Jess Kerr, Rosemary Mair, Georgia Plimmer, Lea Tahuhu.
Point of View
The enthusiasm surrounding the New Zealand team and veteran players like Suzie Bates is palpable. With a blend of experience and youthful talent, the White Ferns are poised to make a significant impact. The preparation in Dubai is a strategic move, ensuring they adapt to the climatic challenges ahead. The nation stands behind them, ready to support their journey.
NationPress
20/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the training camp in Dubai?
The training camp in Dubai is vital for the New Zealand team to acclimatize to the hot and humid conditions they will face during the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup.
How many World Cups has Suzie Bates played?
Suzie Bates has played in five World Cups, making her one of the few players to achieve this milestone.
Who are some of the key players in the New Zealand squad?
Key players in the New Zealand squad include Sophie Devine, Eden Carson, and Flora Devonshire, among others.
