Auckland Hearts batswoman Katie Perkins has been recalled to the WHITE FERNS squad for its three match ODI series against India.
Perkins returns after last playing an ODI for New Zealand in late 2017 - against Pakistan in Sharjah.
WHITE FERNS head coach Haidee Tiffen said Perkins had earned her recall.
“Katie brings with her a lot of experience. She is an outstanding fielder and will be a valuable asset to our middle order batting.”
Perkins said she was “stoked to be back” wearing the WHITE FERNS shirt.
“I’m extremely grateful for the opportunity and can’t thank enough those who have supported me over the past twelve months - in particular my two families, those that are blood related and also the Auckland Hearts whanau.”
The other main feature of the squad is the inclusion of the Northern Spirit’s Bernadine Bezuidenhout as wicket-keeper, replacing the Otago Sparks’ Katey Martin – who is unavailable due to work commitments.
“This is a fantastic opportunity for Bernie to showcase her skills with the gloves. While we will miss the experience of Katey, this is a good chance to build some depth behind the stumps,” Tiffen said.
The squad will assemble in Napier on January 21, ahead of their first ODI against India on the 24th at McLean Park.
“India will be a big challenge but one we are walking towards and excited to take on. They are a quality side with power hitting throughout their batting order and some world class spinners. We won’t be taking them lightly.
“The chance to play double-headers alongside the BLACKCAPS is massive for us. The team are buzzing for it and want to put their best foot forward and play a brand of cricket all New Zealand can be proud of,” Tiffen said.
WHITE FERNS v India (3 ODIs)
Suzie Bates (Otago)
Bernadine Bezuidenhout (Northern Districts)
Sophie Devine (Wellington)
Lauren Down (Auckland)
Maddy Green (Auckland)
Holly Huddleston (Auckland)
Leigh Kasperek (Otago)
Amelia Kerr (Wellington)
Katie Perkins (Auckland)
Anna Peterson (Auckland)
Hannah Rowe (Central Districts)
Amy Satterthwaite © (Canterbury)
Lea Tahuhu (Canterbury)
