Women’s T20 World Cup 2026: New Zealand’s 15-member squad announced, Nancy Patel and Izzy Sharp get first chance

New Zealand has announced its strong team of 15 players for the Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 to be held in England from June 12 to July 5. With this announcement, it was confirmed that after the tournament, legends Sophie Devine, Lee Tahuhu and Suzie Bates would retire from international cricket.

The 10 core members of the 2024 champion team, captained by Amelia Kerr, have been retained. New talents Nancy Patel and 21-year-old Izzy Sharp have got a place in the team for the first time. Iji is the youngest player of the team, who will breathe new life into batting.

Brie Illing, Polly Inglis and Flora Devonshire are also set to play their first T20 World Cup. Head coach Ben Sawyer expressed full confidence in the team. He said that representing the country in the World Cup is the biggest honour.

“Congratulations to all the selected players. This is a special first World Cup for Izzy and Nancy. Our three senior players will finish their careers together, which is a rare opportunity.” Seven wins in the recent eight T20 matches have boosted the morale of the team.

Sawyer praised the depth of the batting and fast bowling, which was on display in the recent series against South Africa and Zimbabwe. Group 2 will clash with England, Ireland, Scotland, Sri Lanka and West Indies.

Team: Amelia Kerr (captain), Suzie Bates, Sophie Devine, Flora Devonshire, Izzy Gage, Mady Green, Brooke Halliday, Brie Illing, Polly Inglis, Jess Kerr, Rosemary Mair, Nancy Patel, Georgia Plimmer, Izzy Sharp, Lee Tahuhu.