Amelia Kerr, Devine In Middle; Bates To Open; New Zealand's Probable XI For 1st ODI Vs India

Amelia Kerr celebrates after taking a wicket [Source: @LuckySolanki45/X.com]

On October 24, India women and New Zealand women will face off in the first ODI match of a three-match series at the Narendra Modi Stadium. After New Zealand’s recent epic T20 World Cup victory, the team, having been high in confidence, are at the top of the mountain at present. 

However, in the ODI format, things can be different. With Sophie Devine still at the helm, the New Zealand team is determined to carry on the momentum with a win against India in the series opener. They just met in the T20 World Cup 2024 in Dubai, where New Zealand ended their 10-match losing streak in the format by thrashing Harmanpreet Kaur-led India.

When Did New Zealand Women Play Their Last ODI?

New Zealand’s last ODI series took place in July 2024, where they lost to England by five wickets. The team, with new positive energy, is now looking to bounce back in the 50-over format.

On the other hand, India, led by Harmanpreet will be eager to make a strong comeback after failing to live up to their lofty standards in the recently-concluded World Cup. In their most recent ODI series against South Africa, the Women in Blue performed significantly well, winning all three matches to complete a 3-0 whitewash against the latest T20 World Cup runner-ups. Needless to say, this series will be an opportunity for India to maintain their ODI dominance.

Talking about New Zealand openers, both Suzie Bates and Georgia Plimmer have been in exceptional form with the bat. Bates, in particular, has been one of the standout players for the country in recent times. The combination of these two will provide a solid start for New Zealand in the opening slots. 

The brighest star at present, Amelia Kerr has been the face of the team for a while. Kerr made history by becoming the highest-wicket taker in a single T20 World Cup edition, helping her to fittingly win the T20 Women’s Player of the Tournament award. She will likely continue her excellent form with both ball and bat to play a pivotal role as the first-down batter.

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Captain Sophie Devine and Brooke Halliday will hold the middle order. Devine’s leadership and powerful batting are key assets for New Zealand. Izzy Gaze will be behind the stumps while also taking on a finisher role with her aggressive batting style.

To steady things up lower down the middle, Maddy Green will provide stability for the White Ferns. The bowling department, led by pacers Lauren Down, Lea Tahuhu, and Molly Penfold, along with spinner Eden Carson, will aim to restrict India’s batting lineup with a potent force.

New Zealand Probable XI Against India: 

Suzie Bates, Georgia Plimmer, Amelia Kerr, Sophie Devine (C), Brooke Halliday, Isabella Gaze (WK), Maddy Green, Lauren Down, Lea Tahuhu, Molly Penfold, Eden Carson

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