In preparation for the Women’s ODI World Cup 2025, which will be jointly hosted by India and Sri Lanka starting September 30th, the New Zealand team has begun its preparations early. They have arrived in India approximately six weeks before the tournament to participate in a training camp at the Chennai Super Kings Academy.
The team’s decision to train in Chennai was strategically made because of the favorable conditions it provides for spinners. After the two-week camp, the players and staff will return to their home country before traveling to Dubai for an ODI series against England, where conditions are also conducive to spin bowling.
Ben Sawyer, the head coach of the New Zealand women’s cricket team, highlighted that the team’s decision to come to India was motivated by the lack of cricket activity in New Zealand due to the winter season. The team has brought seven contracted players and added three additional players to the squad for this trip. The experience has been excellent so far, with the players gaining significant cricket exposure.
Participating players include Jess Kerr, Georgia Plimmer, Brooke Halliday, Izzy Sharp, Flora Devonshire, and Emma McLeod. Izzy Sharp, Flora Devonshire, and Emma McLeod have been included as emerging players.
Indian spinner Asha Shobhana is also participating in the camp, providing valuable insights for the New Zealand team. Asha plays in the Women’s Premier League for Royal Challengers Bangalore.
New Zealand will begin its ICC Women’s ODI World Cup 2025 campaign against Australia on October 1st. The match against India is set for October 23rd at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati. The first semi-final will take place on October 29th, the second on October 30th, and the final on November 2nd.