CHRISTCHURCH, New Zealand, CMC – Uncapped Teenager Kate Heffernan and Lauren Down have been named in New Zealand squads to face West Indies Women in a limited overs series here next month.
The 18-year-old Heffernan, a left-arm pacer, has been included in the Twenty20 squad while Down, a 22-year-old batsman, is part of the One-Day International line-up.
Head coach Haidee Tiffen said both players had earned their places in the White Ferns squads.
“Both Kate and Lauren are impressive athletes in their own right and will definitely bring that dynamic edge that we’re looking for,” she said.
“The fact that Kate is a left-armer was certainly a factor in her selection as she will bring that point of difference. We see an immense amount of potential in Kate, particularly as we look ahead a bit further to a World Cup in New Zealand in 2021.
“Lauren’s been on our radar for a while in both formats and we also think she’s one for the future. She’s explosive with the bat and is a terrific fielder across the park.”
Meanwhile, selectors have recalled all-rounder Kate Ebrahim who will play in the ODI series, and the duo of batsman Natalie Dodd and seamer Hayley Jensen, in the T20 unit.
Both the ODI and T20 sides will be led by the experienced Suzie Bates, with the likes of veterans Amy Satterthwaite and all-rounder Sophie Devine included in both line-ups.
“We’ve picked on form and all three players have stuck their hands up and put in some big performances at times under pressure – which is something we’ve placed real value on,” Tiffen said.
“It’s great to have Hayley back in the mix after her successful season with the Melbourne Renegades in the Australian Women’s Big Bash League.
“She’s a quality player and we’re delighted that she’s committed herself to returning to New Zealand to play her cricket.”
The White Ferns host West Indies Women in three ODIs and five T20 Internationals, from March 3-25.
The Bert Sutcliffe Oval in Lincoln will be the venue for the first two one-days with the Hagley Oval here staging the third.
McLean Park in Napier will be the venue for the first two T20Is with Pukekura Park in New Plymouth playing host to the next two.
Seddon Park in Hamilton will be the scene of the final match of the series.
