New Zealand name squad for women`s World Cup

Auckland: New Zealand have recalled the experienced Sophie Devine and the talented Kate Broadmore to a 15-member cricket squad for the upcoming ICC World Cup in India.

Opener Suzie Bates will again captain the Black Caps who were losing finalists at the last Women`s World Cup in Australia four years ago, reports CMC. "We have selected a strong all-round squad for the ICC Women`s World Cup. There is depth in our batting, a bowling attack with a variety of pace and spin, excellent fielders with plenty of energy and excellent leadership," said national selection manager Kim Littlejohn. "There`s a lot of experience in the team, including a large number of World Cup veterans, and we think that familiarity will be useful when it comes to pressure situations that the team will face during the marquee tournament." Devine is a welcome addition to the squad, after missing last month`s Rose Bowl series against Australia with injury. She is a strong top-order batsman and bowls right-arm seam. Broadmore, meanwhile, has played 13 One-Day Internationals since her debut in 2010 but has not played for New Zealand since March last year. Her right-arm medium pace and lower order batting will be a boost to the unit. "We believe the squad selected is capable of winning the World Cup in sub-continental conditions," said coach Katrina Keenan. New Zealand will play alongside Australia, Pakistan and South Africa in Group B of the Jan 31 to Feb 17 tournament. India will do battle in Group A which also comprises the West Indies, England and Sri Lanka. Squad: Suzie Bates (captain), Amy Satterthwaite, Kate Broadmore, Nicola Browne, Rachel Candy, Natalie Dodd, Lucy Doolan, Sophie Devine, Sara McGlashan, Frances Mackay, Morna Nielsen, Katie Perkins, Rachel Priest, Sian Ruck, Lea Tahuhu. IANS/CMC