Promising seamer rewarded for strong domestic form after T20I debut; key players return from injury for three-match ODI series

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New Zealand have named a 13-member squad for their upcoming ODI series against South Africa, with rising seamer Kayley Knight earning her maiden call-up in the 50-over format. The three-match series is set to begin on Sunday, marking a significant opportunity for Knight to make her ODI debut.

Knight recently made her T20I debut during New Zealand’s home series against Zimbabwe, where she impressed with two wickets in as many matches. She maintained an average of 20.50 and an economy rate of 5.85, showcasing her ability to deliver under pressure. Although she is not part of the ongoing T20I series against South Africa, her consistent performances have secured her a place in the ODI squad.

The 22-year-old’s selection comes on the back of an outstanding domestic season with Northern Districts in New Zealand Cricket’s Women’s One-Day Competition. Knight played a crucial role in her team’s title-winning campaign, finishing joint-sixth among the leading wicket-takers with 17 wickets at an impressive average of 13.76 and an economy rate of 3.82.

New Zealand head coach Ben Sawyer praised Knight’s abilities, highlighting her pace, control, and effective short-ball tactics. “It’s great to call Kayley up for her first ODI series. She brings good pace and control, and her short ball regularly challenges batters,” Sawyer said.

The squad also sees the return of experienced players Suzie Bates, Flora Devonshire, and Georgia Plimmer, who were sidelined during the Zimbabwe series due to injuries. They replace Emma McLeod, Polly Inglis, and Bella James, while Knight comes in for Molly Penfold.

New Zealand head into the ODI series with strong momentum, having already secured a 3-1 victory in the T20I series against South Africa. The final T20I is scheduled to be played at Hagley Oval in Christchurch on Wednesday.

The ODI series will begin in Christchurch before moving to Wellington’s Basin Reserve, which will host the second and third matches on April 1 and April 4, respectively.

New Zealand ODI Squad vs South Africa:
Amelia Kerr (captain), Suzie Bates, Flora Devonshire, Izzy Gaze, Maddy Green, Brooke Halliday, Bree Illing, Jess Kerr, Kayley Knight, Rosemary Mair, Nensi Patel, Georgia Plimmer, Izzy Sharp.