Bates v Devine series offers a glimpse into the future

Posted Thursday, 5 February, 2026 in Domestic News

Twenty-six of the most promising female age-group cricketers will assemble at Lincoln University this week for the fifth edition of the Bates v Devine series.

A key component of a two-year campaign towards the ICC Women’s U19 World Cup in January 2027, the series poses an exciting opportunity for age-group representatives who have already been busy this season.

Among them is 17-year-old Ayaan Lambaat, who featured in the last ICC Under-19 World Cup and went on to make her Auckland Hearts debut this season.

She starred for Auckland U19 Women at the recent national tournament and scored two centuries in just three matches.

Vrunda Patel (Northern Districts) and Rose McGuigan (Wellington) were the first and third‑highest run‑scorers respectively at this year’s inaugural National U17 Girls Tournament.

Six players featuring in the series have enjoyed a wide range of development opportunities this season, competing at national age‑group level and backing it up at last week’s Rangatahi Cricket Festival.

While still in the early stages of its journey, the Bates v Devine series has already played a pivotal role in the development of elite talent.

Flora Devonshire, Izzy Gaze, Bree Illing, Izzy Sharp and Emma McLeod all featured in the inaugural series and have since gone on to represent the WHITE FERNS.

The camp will include three matches and education sessions focused on preparation, performance, and reflection.

The programme will also provide newly appointed coaches Amy Satterthwaite and Rachel Candy with the opportunity to work closely with, and further develop, players as they build toward the 2027 ICC U19 Women’s World Cup.

Former WHITE FERNS star Sara McGlashan will lead the New Zealand U19 campaign as Head Coach, supported by Satterthwaite and Candy.

Matches will be live scored at nzc.nz or through the NZC app.

Bates Squad: