Bates, Devine, and Tahuhu Sidelined for Zimbabwe Series

New Zealand's women's cricket team is facing a tough time ahead of their home series against Zimbabwe, with key players Suzie Bates, Sophie Devine, and Lea Tahuhu missing the series. Bates is dealing with a quadricep injury, while Tahuhu has been rested for physical preparation ahead of the Women's T20 World Cup. Devine, on a casual contract with NZC, is also unavailable. The 23-year-old Nensi, an allrounder who bowls offspin, had also been centrally contracted nearly four years ago for the 2022-23 season. She has played for New Zealand A and had an impressive domestic summer for Northern Brave, finishing as their top run-scorer and joint second-highest wicket-taker alongside Knight in the Super Smash. Kayley Knight, a 22-year-old right-arm quick, is getting her chance with the New Zealand women's team! She impressed with 10 wickets and a 6.16 economy rate in the Super Smash, and her U19 T20 World Cup experience will be valuable. Here's the updated squad info: T20Is: Knight, Polly Inglis, Amelia Kerr (captain) ODIs: Molly Penfold, Emma McLeod, Bree Illing, Jess Kerr, Rosemary Mair Pace attack: Bree Illing, Jess Kerr, Rosemary Mair, and Molly Penfold (ODIs) or Kayley Knight (T20Is) The six games - three games in each format - will be Amelia Kerr's first assignment as the New Zealand captain. The tour begins with three T20Is from February 25 before the ODIs begin on March 5. All T20Is will be played in Hamilton whereas the ODIs will be played in Dunedin. This opens up opportunities for uncapped players Nensi Patel and Kayley Knight, who've been called up to the squad. Amelia Kerr will lead the White Ferns in their six-match series, which includes three T20Is and three ODIs.