Kerr and Devine of New Zealand to Sit Out First T20I Against England

New Zealand’s Melie Kerr and Sophie Devine will be missing the opening match of the women’s T20I series against England due to travel complications. Kerr won’t return in time from India, while Devine will join the team after the WPL final. Georgia Plimmer has been called in as a replacement.

Kerr’s Mumbai Indians were eliminated from WPL by Devine’s Royal Challenger’s Bangalore, leading to their absence from the first T20I against England. However, both players are expected to be available for the second match at Saxton Oval on Friday. Plimmer, who featured in New Zealand A’s defeat to England A, will also join the squad.

White Ferns’ head coach Ben Sawyer expressed disappointment but sees the situation as an opportunity to build depth within the squad. He mentioned, “We’ve made plans for all scenarios and the positive is that it gives other players an opportunity to test themselves against a strong England side.” Plimmer’s addition to the squad was praised by Sawyer who believes she can contribute in the opening T20.

Suzie Bates will captain the side in the absence of Devine and Kerr for the series opener in Dunedin. An update on the second replacement player will be provided later. The team is looking forward to testing their skills against a strong England side despite the setbacks.