New Zealand Announces Squad Changes for Final England ODI

Star all-rounder and regular captain, Sophie Devine, is set to return to the field for the final clash of the ongoing series against England. Devine had been sidelined for the last three games, including the fifth T20I and the first two ODIs, due to a quad strain.

Devine was added to the final ODI’s squad after successfully passing a fitness test in Hamilton on Friday, 5 April.

England has been enjoying a successful tour, having won the five-match T20I series by a 4-1 margin and securing an unassailable 2-0 lead in the ICC Women’s Championship three-match ODI series.

ICC Women’s Championship 2022-25 Standings

White Ferns’ head coach, Ben Sawyer, expressed that Devine’s return would significantly boost the team’s morale for the final ODI.

“Having Sophie lead the team tomorrow will fill the squad with confidence,” said Sawyer. “Sophie is always a significant miss whenever she is unavailable, so we’re delighted to have her back.”

However, the team has also suffered a setback with opening batter Bernadine Bezuidenhout being sidelined due to a hamstring injury.

Bezuidenhout sustained the injury while fielding on the boundary during the second ODI at Seddon Park. Consequently, the coaching staff decided against sending her to bat during the latter part of the second innings.

A scan confirmed that Bezuidenhout has sustained a Grade 1 hamstring strain, requiring a brief period of rehabilitation.

“We’re disappointed for Bernie, who’s already faced her fair share of injury challenges this summer,” said Sawyer. “We’re hoping she will make a quick recovery as we look ahead to a busy winter of cricket.”

Eden Carson has been called up as a replacement to make up the 13-player squad for the final ODI, with Mikaela Greig also added as extra cover.

The final ODI is scheduled to be played at the same venue as the second game, Seddon Park in Hamilton, on Sunday (7 April).