New Zealand name strong squad for Women's World Cup, Fran Jonas left out

New Zealand has named a strong 15-member squad for the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025, but the announcement was marked by the absence of left-arm spinner Fran Jonas. The 21-year-old has represented the White Ferns in 26 ODIs and was expected to be part of the spin group, but selectors opted for a different balance.

Replacing Jonas is all-rounder Flora Devonshire, who has earned her first senior ICC call-up. The 22-year-old impressed in the Hallyburton Johnstone Shield with more than 250 runs and 18 wickets, offering a dual skill set that strengthens the middle order and provides additional bowling depth.

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Head coach Ben Sawyer admitted that leaving out Jonas for Devonshire was a difficult call. He stressed the challenge of selecting from multiple players vying for the same spot but expressed confidence that Jonas, despite missing out, has her best years ahead. Sawyer underlined that tough choices were inevitable while balancing talent and team requirements.

"It's never easy when you have multiple players pushing for the same spot and that of course made for some tough selection calls. Having to leave out the likes of Fran in favour of Flora was a tough decision. We know Fran is a quality player and at 21 we believe she still has her best years in front of her,” Sawyer said.

The squad blends experienced stalwarts with emerging names. Captain Sophie Devine, preparing for her final ODI World Cup, is joined by Suzie Bates, who will feature in her fifth edition. Lea Tahuhu enters her fourth, while Maddy Green and Amelia Kerr make their third appearances.

New Zealand are scheduled to start their campaign on Wednesday, October 1 against Alyssa Healy’s Australia at the Holkar Stadium in Indore.

New Zealand for Women's ODI World Cup

Sophie Devine (capt), Suzie Bates, Eden Carson, Flora Devonshire, Izzy Gaze, Maddy Green, Brooke Halliday, Bree Illing, Polly Inglis, Bella James, Jess Kerr, Amelia Kerr, Rosemary Mair, Georgia Plimmer, Lea Tahuhu