Uncapped Polly Inglis Joins New Zealand Squad for India ODIs

Polly Inglis, an uncapped wicketkeeper-batter, has earned her first international call-up to the New Zealand squad for their upcoming three-match One Day International (ODI) series against India. Inglis, who has impressed in the domestic circuit, joins the 15-member squad led by Sophie Devine, fresh off their victory in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup.

New Zealand Squad

The squad for the ODI series includes: Sophie Devine (captain), Suzie Bates, Eden Carson, Lauren Down, Izzy Gaze, Maddy Green, Brooke Halliday, Polly Inglis, Fran Jonas, Jess Kerr, Melie Kerr, Molly Penfold, Georgia Plimmer, Hannah Rowe, and Lea Tahuhu.

Polly Inglis’ Rise to the Squad

Inglis, who represents Otago in New Zealand’s domestic cricket, caught the attention of the national selectors following strong performances in the Hallyburton Johnstone Shield one-day competition and during the New Zealand A series against England. Her performances led to her receiving a central contract with New Zealand Cricket in June 2024.

“We're really excited to introduce Polly for her first tour,” said head coach Ben Sawyer. “She consistently showed her potential in the domestic circuit and during the New Zealand A series, making it the right time for her to step up to the international level.”

Inglis’ call-up is seen as a strategic move for New Zealand as they prepare for the upcoming ODI World Cup in India next year. The tour against India is being viewed as an essential part of their preparation, giving Inglis a chance to prove herself on the international stage.

Key Absences: Rosemary Mair and Leigh Kasperek Rested

New Zealand will miss the services of two key players, pacer Rosemary Mair and off-spinner Leigh Kasperek. Mair, who was part of the World Cup-winning squad, has been rested as part of a long-term rehabilitation process following a back injury earlier this year. Mair’s workload was closely managed throughout the recent ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in the UAE, and further rest is required before she returns to the 50-over format.

"Managing Rosemary’s recovery is crucial," the New Zealand Cricket board stated in a media release. "Her bowling loads were carefully monitored during the T20 World Cup, and her continued recovery from her earlier back injury will ensure she is fit and ready for the upcoming ODI World Cup."

Kasperek, another key member of the T20 World Cup squad, will also not be part of the ODI series in India. The reasons for her absence were not detailed, but it is believed that it could be part of squad rotation as New Zealand tests its depth ahead of the ODI World Cup.

The Excitement of Touring India

The tour of India is highly anticipated by the squad, with the players eager to take on the challenge in one of the most cricket-enthusiastic countries in the world. "Touring India is one of the great experiences in world cricket," Sawyer said. "It’s a special place to play, and we’re looking forward to the challenge of competing in these conditions. Alongside our goal of winning the series, this tour will serve as critical preparation for next year's ODI World Cup in India."

Focus on Preparation for the ODI World Cup

This series against India is not only an opportunity for New Zealand to fine-tune their game plans, but it also serves as a testing ground for players like Inglis, who are new to the international arena. The team's management is using this series as a crucial part of their preparation for the Women's ODI World Cup, which will also be held in India in 2025.

The first match of the three-game series will take place on Thursday, October 24, at the Narendra Modi Stadium, one of the most iconic venues in cricket. This will mark the beginning of what promises to be a high-intensity contest between two competitive sides, both eyeing the broader goal of ODI World Cup readiness.

New Zealand's Schedule in India

Here’s the schedule for the upcoming ODI series:

• Thursday, October 24: 1st ODI – Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad
• Saturday, October 26: 2nd ODI – Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai
• Tuesday, October 29: 3rd ODI – Eden Gardens, Kolkata

This tour also sets the tone for an exciting lead-up to the 2025 ODI World Cup, as teams across the globe fine-tune their squads and strategies. With an exciting mix of experienced players like Sophie Devine and Suzie Bates, along with rising stars like Polly Inglis, New Zealand will be looking to test their depth and adaptability in Indian conditions.

The absence of Mair and Kasperek, two experienced campaigners, may present challenges for the team, but it also opens the door for other players to step up and showcase their abilities. New Zealand will need all-round contributions from their experienced core and the newcomers alike to overcome a strong Indian team.

As they head into the series, New Zealand’s squad will be eager to build momentum, knowing that strong performances in this series could be vital for their confidence and preparation heading into the Women’s ODI World Cup next year. Polly Inglis' debut and how she handles the pressures of international cricket will be one of the key storylines to follow in this series.

New Zealand’s ODI series against India marks the beginning of an important phase for the team, as they prepare for the 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup. The series will test their squad depth, and the inclusion of uncapped Polly Inglis adds excitement as the team looks to balance their preparation with a focus on grooming future stars. While key players like Rosemary Mair and Leigh Kasperek are resting, New Zealand will look to build momentum, starting with the ODI series against a formidable Indian team on home soil.