NZ name women's T20 WC squad; Devine, Bates set for record ninth appearance

Sophie Devine and Suzie Bates to become first women to play in nine ICC world events

White Ferns unveil 15-strong squad for ICC Women's T20 World Cup

New Zealand have named their squad for the ICC Women's T20 World Cup in South Africa, with Sophie Devine and Suzie Bates set to become the first women to play in nine ICC world events.

The White Ferns have selected a 15-strong squad for the tournament, which will be held from February 10 to 26.

Devine and Bates are the most experienced players in the squad, with both having played in eight ICC world events.

Devine is the White Ferns' captain and has been in impressive form in recent months, scoring two centuries in her last three T20Is.

Bates is the White Ferns' leading run-scorer in T20Is and is also a dangerous bowler.

The rest of the squad includes a mix of experienced players and exciting youngsters.

Amelia Kerr is a rising star of the White Ferns and is a genuine all-rounder, capable of batting, bowling and fielding to a high level.

Fran Jonas is another young player who has impressed in recent months and is a dangerous fast bowler.

The White Ferns will be hoping to make a big impact at the T20 World Cup and will be one of the favourites to win the tournament.

They have a strong squad with a good mix of experience and youth, and will be confident of going all the way.

Squad:

* Sophie Devine (c) * Suzie Bates * Amelia Kerr * Fran Jonas * Hayley Jensen * Brooke Halliday * Jess Kerr * Maddy Green * Georgia Plimmer * Rosemary Mair * Hannah Rowe * Molly Penfold * Eden Carson * Izzy Gaze * Maia Bouchier

Fixtures:

* February 11: New Zealand v Sri Lanka, Paarl * February 13: New Zealand v Australia, Paarl * February 15: New Zealand v South Africa, Paarl * February 17: New Zealand v Bangladesh, Cape Town * February 19: New Zealand v England, Cape Town