The White Ferns have started their ICC World Twenty20 campaign positively, with an 18 run win over their trans-Tasman rivals Australia and it was Suzie Bates who showed she there to bring home the silverware.
The White Ferns landed in the West Indies on Friday after almost 30 hours in the air, going via Los Angles and Miami. Their first warm up against their southern counterparts allowed the White Ferns to focus on their skills and acclimatise to the conditions in St Kitts. The White Ferns were able to put 136/6 on the board before limiting the Australian batting attack to 118 for five.
White Ferns all-rounder Suzie Bates had an easy transition into the hot Caribbean weather, proving she is out to make a name for herself at the competition, smashing 51 runs off 45 balls against the strong Australian bowling line up.
"I was pleased with how I started my innings we got off to a good start,” Bates said. “The wicket was a little slow but good conditions overall - a very nice ground to play at for our first match.”
She said she felt positive about starting the competition on a positive note and she is hopeful of continuing her fine form through the competition. “It was good to put some runs on the board to create some pressure and the bowlers backed it up with some tight bowling in the first six overs.” she said. “I enjoy playing the Australians and I’m looking forward to building momentum with the team in the matches ahead."
The White Ferns play their first competitive match on May 6 against India.
