Cricket

The historic triumph of the New Zealand women's cricket team in the T20 World Cup has sparked an unprecedented celebration across the nation. To commemorate this momentous achievement, the coveted trophy will embark on a nine-day tour of New Zealand, allowing fans to share in the joy and inspiration.The trophy tour, commencing on Saturday, will provide an opportunity for the victorious team and support staff to connect with their adoring fans. Free-entry public events will be held in ten cities, including Dunedin, Christchurch, Wellington, and Auckland. The team members will engage with fans, sign autographs, and share their experiences from the unforgettable tournament."The World Cup win is a watershed moment for women's cricket in New Zealand," said Stacey Geraghty, NZC's marketing communications general manager. "We're determined to make the most of it and celebrate with the team and the public."The tour is expected to generate immense excitement, mirroring the outpouring of support witnessed during the BLACKCAPS' ICC World Test Championship Mace tour in 2021. The trophy will also be on display at all New Zealand women's matches during the home summer, further fueling the passion for the sport.New Zealand's maiden T20 World Cup victory was a testament to their exceptional talent and unwavering determination. In the semi-final, they overcame a formidable West Indies team, setting the stage for a thrilling final against South Africa. Powered by an all-round performance from Amelia Kerr, the White Ferns emerged victorious, etching their names in the annals of cricket history.The trophy tour will not only celebrate the team's triumph but also inspire future generations of cricketers. By bringing the trophy to communities across New Zealand, NZC aims to foster a love for the sport and encourage young girls to pursue their dreams on the cricket field.

White Ferns Face Uphill Battle in India After Crushing ODI DefeatThe New Zealand White Ferns, fresh off their historic T20 World Cup triumph, have suffered a setback in their opening One-Day International (ODI) against India. Despite their remarkable achievement in South Africa, the White Ferns were unable to carry their momentum into the Indian leg of their tour.In the first ODI, played in Mumbai, the White Ferns were outplayed by a dominant Indian side. The hosts batted first and posted a formidable total of 274/7, with Tejal Hasabnis top-scoring with 74. The Indian bowlers then restricted New Zealand to 229/9, with no batter able to reach 40.The defeat was a blow to the White Ferns' hopes of keeping the three-match series alive. They now face an uphill battle to win the remaining two ODIs and secure points on the ICC Women's Championship table, which determines qualification for next year's World Cup.India, on the other hand, will be looking to wrap up the series with a game to spare. Despite failing to bat through their 50 overs in the first ODI, they showed their class with a solid batting performance. The likes of Shafali Verma, D. Hemalatha, and Smriti Mandhana will be eager to continue their good form in the upcoming matches.The White Ferns have been dealt a further blow with the news that Amelia Kerr, the player of the final and tournament at the T20 World Cup, is flying home with a grade one quadriceps tear. Kerr was New Zealand's best bowler in the opening ODI, taking 2/42.Despite the setbacks, the White Ferns have plenty of talent and experience in their ranks. Skipper Sophie Devine, Suzie Bates, Georgia Plimmer, and Brooke Halliday will be key to their hopes of bouncing back in the second ODI.The second ODI will be played in Vadodara on Sunday, October 29. The White Ferns will need to put in a much-improved performance if they want to keep their series hopes alive.

New Zealand cricket has reached unprecedented heights in an extraordinary week, etching its name in the annals of history with two landmark victories. Within a span of seven days, the Black Caps secured their first-ever Test series win in India, while the White Ferns claimed their maiden ICC Women's T20 World Cup title.Black Caps End 69-Year Wait with Historic Test Series Win in IndiaThe week of glory began on October 20, when New Zealand's men's team ended a 36-year winless streak in India with a commanding 8-wicket victory in the first Test in Bengaluru. It was New Zealand's first Test win on Indian soil since 1988 and only their third in history. The victory marked the start of their first-ever series triumph in India in 13 attempts since 1955.Under overcast conditions, India's batting crumbled under the pressure, posting just 46 runs in their first innings - their lowest Test total in Asia. New Zealand pacer Matt Henry spearheaded the demolition, taking 5 for 15. In response, New Zealand amassed 402 runs, taking control of the match. India showed fight in their second innings, with Sarfaraz Khan's 150 helping set a target of 107, but the Black Caps chased it down with ease.The second Test in Pune was even more dramatic. New Zealand fought back after being bowled out for 259, with Mitchell Santner delivering a match-winning performance, taking 7 for 53 to dismiss India for just 156. New Zealand set India a challenging fourth-innings target of 359, and despite Yashasvi Jaiswal's blistering 77, India folded for 245, giving New Zealand a 113-run victory and their first-ever Test series win in India. This also ended India's 12-year unbeaten run in home series.White Ferns Make History with Maiden T20 World Cup WinWhile the men's team was making history in India, the New Zealand women's team, the White Ferns, achieved their own momentous victory by lifting their first-ever ICC Women's T20 World Cup in Dubai on the same day as the Bengaluru Test win (October 20).Entering the tournament as underdogs, the White Ferns stunned the cricket world by defeating India by 58 runs in their opening game. Despite a setback against defending champions Australia, New Zealand reached the semifinals with wins over Sri Lanka and Pakistan. A narrow 8-run victory over West Indies in the semifinals set up a final clash with South Africa.In the final, the White Ferns posted a competitive total and restricted South Africa to win by 32 runs, claiming their first T20 World Cup and second ICC trophy, following their 2000 Women's ODI World Cup win.Seven Days of Glory for New Zealand CricketIn just seven days, New Zealand cricket achieved historic feats that have redefined their legacy on the world stage. The Black Caps' first-ever Test series win in India and the White Ferns' maiden T20 World Cup triumph represent the pinnacle of New Zealand cricket's red-letter week, marking a period of unprecedented success that will be remembered for years to come.

New Zealand's cricket teams have etched their names in history with remarkable victories over the weekend. The men's team triumphed in their Test match against India, securing their first Test win on Indian soil in 36 years. Meanwhile, the White Ferns claimed the ICC Women's T20 World Cup title, their maiden triumph in the tournament.Men's Test Victory:In the Test match against India in Bengaluru, New Zealand's bowlers dominated, with Matt Henry and William O'Rourke dismantling the Indian batting lineup. India was bowled out for a mere 46 runs in their first innings, giving New Zealand a significant advantage.Rachin Ravindra, Devon Conway, and Tim Southee contributed crucial runs to New Zealand's total of 402/10. Despite a valiant effort from India's batters, including Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Sarfaraz Khan, they could only manage 462/10 in their second innings.New Zealand chased down the modest target of 106 runs comfortably, winning by eight wickets. Ravindra was named 'Player of the Match' for his outstanding performance with both bat and ball.Women's T20 World Cup Triumph:The White Ferns made history by defeating South Africa in the final of the ICC Women's T20 World Cup. After being put in to bat, New Zealand posted a competitive total of 158/5, thanks to contributions from Suzie Bates, Amelia Kerr, and Brooke Halliday.South Africa's chase started promisingly, but they lost wickets at regular intervals and were eventually restricted to 126/9. Kerr and Rosemary Mair were the standout bowlers for New Zealand, with Kerr earning the 'Player of the Match' award for her all-round performance.

Craig McMillan, the former New Zealand batter, has been appointed as the assistant coach of the women's team for the next two years. McMillan, who played 260 internationals between 1997 and 2007, will work alongside head coach Ben Sawyer starting with the upcoming tour of England later this month.McMillan had previously served as New Zealand's batting coach between 2014 and 2019, a period that saw the team reach consecutive ODI World Cup finals. He had also featured as a fielding coach for Punjab Kings in the IPL in 2018. McMillan's most recent assignment was as a batting consultant for Canterbury last season."He's a proven coach with an extensive international playing career," Sawyer said. "The players are excited to start working with Craig; they're looking forward to having him on board for the upcoming tour to England."McCullum said he was looking to "drive the team forward" ahead of a busy schedule that includes the women's T20 World Cup in just four months."I'm rapt with the appointment and to be back involved in coaching international cricket again," he said."It'll be great to be part of the White Ferns family as we head into a busy nine-month schedule with some exciting challenges ahead. I've watched these talented players a lot from close quarters over the past few seasons and can't wait to join the management team in driving the group forward."New Zealand are scheduled to tour England for three ODIs and five T20Is, between June 26 and July 17. They will then travel to Australia for a three-match T20I series in September, before the T20 World Cup in October.McMillan's appointment is a significant boost for the White Ferns, who are looking to build on their recent success. The team reached the semi-finals of the 2020 T20 World Cup and the final of the 2022 ODI World Cup.McMillan's experience and expertise will be invaluable as the White Ferns look to continue their progress and challenge for major honors.

Lauren Down, a 29-year-old New Zealand cricketer, is making a remarkable comeback to the national team just five months after giving birth to her daughter, Ruby. Down's return to the ODI squad for the upcoming series against England is a testament to her determination and the support she has received from her family and teammates.Down's journey back to the top has been challenging, but she has remained focused on her goal of representing New Zealand again. She has worked tirelessly to regain her fitness and has been inspired by the support of her partner and fellow White Ferns mums, Amy Satterthwaite and Lea Tahuhu.Down's return to the top order is a significant development for the White Ferns. She has a proven track record of success in the top three, and her experience and leadership will be invaluable to the team. Down is eager to make a positive impact and help New Zealand build on their recent gains.The White Ferns have undergone a rigorous training program in preparation for the England tour, and Down's return has been met with enthusiasm by head coach Ben Sawyer. Sawyer believes that Down's presence at the top of the order will be a major asset to the team, especially in ODI cricket.Down's comeback is a reminder of the resilience and determination of female athletes. She has overcome significant challenges to return to the top of her sport, and her story is an inspiration to all who aspire to achieve their dreams.

Lauren Down, a seasoned New Zealand cricketer, is making a triumphant return to the international stage after a maternity leave. She will join the White Ferns squad for their upcoming tour of England, which includes three ODIs and five T20Is starting on June 26.Down, who has amassed 28 ODIs and 13 T20Is, last played for New Zealand at the 2023 T20 World Cup in South Africa. Since then, she has taken a break from cricket to welcome her first child."We're thrilled to have Lauren back," said White Ferns head coach Ben Sawyer. "She has dedicated herself to regaining her fitness and confidence over the past four months, and this tour provides the perfect opportunity to reintegrate her into the team."Down will be joined by fellow middle-order batter Mikaela Greig, who made her international debut in March against England. Greig's selection is a testament to her impressive performances for New Zealand A.Pace bowler Rosemary Mair will miss the tour due to back pain, while seamer Lea Tahuhu will remain in New Zealand for the birth of her second child. Off-spinner Leigh Kasperek will join the squad for the T20I leg.Molly Penfold returns to the team as a seam bowling option after her strong showing against England A in March. Hayley Jensen, who sustained a calf injury during the New Zealand A series, is still recovering and was not considered for selection.Sawyer emphasized that the tour is part of New Zealand's long-term planning for major events, including the T20 World Cup in Bangladesh in October and the 50-over tournament in India next year."Every series is an opportunity to evaluate our best playing XI," said Sawyer. "With the T20 and one-day World Cups approaching, it's crucial to assess how Lauren and Mikaela can contribute to our team."England emerged victorious in their recent T20I and ODI series against New Zealand in New Zealand. However, Sawyer remains optimistic about his team's chances in England."We didn't achieve the results we desired when we faced England at home, but we witnessed some promising performances from our players," said Sawyer. "Playing a world-class team like England in their own backyard will be a challenge, but we're confident that we've prepared ourselves to succeed."

New Zealand wicketkeeper Bernadine Bezuidenhout has bid farewell to international cricket, leaving behind a legacy of resilience and dedication. Her journey began in 2014 with the South African national team, where she represented her country in four ODIs and seven T20Is. In 2015, she relocated to Christchurch, New Zealand, and after fulfilling a two-year residential stand-down, she made her debut for the White Ferns in 2018.Bezuidenhout's international career with New Zealand spanned 16 ODIs and 22 T20Is. She played a pivotal role in the team's T20 World Cup campaign in 2018, although New Zealand's journey ended in the league stage. However, her career was not without its challenges. In 2020, she was diagnosed with RED-S (Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport), which sidelined her from the game for two years.Despite the setback, Bezuidenhout's determination remained unwavering. She made a remarkable comeback to the New Zealand squad for the 2023 T20 World Cup. Off the field, she has dedicated herself to inspiring young people through her non-profit organization, The EPIC Sports Project Charitable Trust. The organization aims to break down barriers to sports participation and foster hope and belonging in high-deprivation communities."It's been such a great ride," Bezuidenhout said in a statement released by New Zealand Cricket. "Playing for the White Ferns has been a huge privilege and honor. The journey has taught me so much, and I'll be forever grateful to everyone who has been on the path with me."Bezuidenhout's decision to retire was not an easy one. She has struggled to balance her work and playing career, and after careful consideration, she has chosen to focus her full attention on The EPIC Sports Project. "I'm at peace with this decision, but it wasn't an easy one to make," she said.New Zealand head coach Ben Sawyer expressed his gratitude for Bezuidenhout's contributions to the team. "We're proud of the work that Bernie does outside of cricket, and I have no doubt she'll continue to make a positive impact on the lives of many," he said.Bezuidenhout will continue to play domestic cricket for Northern Districts. Her legacy as a resilient and dedicated cricketer, both on and off the field, will continue to inspire future generations.