The ICC Women’s ODI World Cup 2025 is set to run from 30th September to 2nd November in India and Sri Lanka. The Sophie Devine-led White Ferns squad blends established experience with fresh firepower.
Sophie Devine will once again lead the White Ferns, but what truly stands out this time is the inclusion of six players who will be making their maiden ODI World Cup appearances. From rising wicketkeepers to exciting batting and bowling prospects, this new crop not only adds depth but also offers tactical flexibility for New Zealand as they take on the world’s best. Here is a closer look at each of the first timers eyeing their moment on the global stage.
Isabella Gaze: The Reliable Wicket-Keeping Backbone
At just 21, Isabella Gaze has already had over two years in international cricket. Since her debut against the West Indies in September 2022, she has turned out in 23 ODIs, contributing 219 runs across 18 innings at an average of 14.60 and a strike rate of 64.22. Her highest score of 47 hints at untapped potential with the bat, while her presence behind the stumps has steadily grown in importance. Expected to carry the frontline wicket-keeping duties in India and Sri Lanka, Gaze will be intent on using her first global tournament to underline her promise both with the gloves and the bat.
Polly Inglis: The Aggressive Back-up Option
Polly Inglis, aged 29, only broke into the ODI setup earlier this year but has wasted little time leaving an impact. Debuting against Sri Lanka in March 2025 at Napier, she has already shown her attacking intent, striking at 165.38 across her first three matches with the best of 34* in just two innings. While she is likely to serve as backup to Gaze during the World Cup, Inglis brings a fearless approach at the crease and provides the team with a high-tempo wicket-keeping alternative if needed.
Bella James: The Versatile Top-order Prospect
Bella James, the 26-year-old right-hand batter with a 360-degree stroke range, is seen as a potential match-turner. She debuted in December 2024 against Australia in Wellington and has since tallied 51 runs at an average of 25.50 and a strike rate of 82.25 in two matches. Though still in the early stages of her international career, James possesses a dynamic game suited for the big stage. If given opportunities in India and Sri Lanka, she has the ability to anchor or accelerate innings, qualities that could prove critical if New Zealand are to challenge consistently.
Flora Devonshire: The Uncapped All-rounder
A 22-year-old left-arm spin bowling all-rounder, Flora Devonshire, represents one of the most intriguing inclusions in this World Cup squad. Having made her T20I debut against Sri Lanka in March 2025, she is yet to feature in an ODI. Known both for her control with the ball and her power-hitting capabilities, Devonshire adds balance and future-focused depth to the squad. If she earns her debut during the tournament itself, it will mark a significant step in her progression, potentially providing New Zealand with a multidimensional option in spin-friendly conditions.
Eden Carson: A Spin Wizard Ready to Lead the White Ferns Spin Attack
Eden Carson, 24, may not be entirely new to the ODI stage, but this will be her first ODI World Cup. Since debuting in September 2022 against the West Indies, she has played 17 matches, claiming 16 wickets at 38.93 with an economy of 4.80. A reliable right-arm off-spinner, Carson will play an essential role on spin-friendly tracks on offer. As one of the frontline bowlers, her challenge will be to provide consistent breakthroughs in the middle overs while complementing New Zealand’s seam attack.
Bree Illing: Left-arm Pace Promise
Another youngster set to make her maiden World Cup mark is 21-year-old Bree Illing. Debuting in ODIs earlier this year against Sri Lanka, she picked up four wickets in her three appearances at an average of 29.25 and an economy of 4.17. With left-arm pace providing a natural variation to the bowling group, Illing is a strong contender for a first-choice role. This debut World Cup campaign could not only fast-track her development but also offer New Zealand a valuable strike-pacer in conditions that traditionally test seamers’ adaptability.
Road Ahead for the White Ferns
The blend of youthful promise and experienced leadership places New Zealand in an exciting space going into the World Cup. With Sophie Devine at the helm, the responsibility of integrating these six newcomers into high-stakes pressure will be critical. Their first assignment could hardly be tougher, as the White Ferns open their campaign against defending champions Australia on 1st October 2025 at Holkar Cricket Stadium, Indore, from 3 PM IST.
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