Tue Dec 17 09:29:28 UTC 2024: ## White Ferns Name Squad for ODI Series Against Australia; James Earns Maiden Call-Up

**Wellington, NZ** – New Zealand’s White Ferns have announced their squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series against Australia, set to take place from December 19th to 23rd. The series marks a rematch after Australia’s 3-0 whitewash of New Zealand in 2021. While New Zealand will be buoyed by their recent ICC Women’s T20 World Cup victory, Australia enters the series on a high following their own recent ODI series win over India.

Notable absences from the White Ferns squad include veteran pacer Lea Tahuhu and young batter Georgia Plimmer due to injury. Their places have been filled by several players, most significantly with the inclusion of Bella James, a wicket-keeper batter from the Otago Sparks. James, the second highest run-scorer in the ongoing New Zealand Cricket Women’s One-Day Competition with 293 runs at a remarkable average of 73.25, earns her first senior national call-up. Her impressive form, including a century against Wellington Blaze, has secured her a spot in the squad.

“She’s been working hard at the domestic level for many years, and her current form shows why she deserves this opportunity,” said White Ferns selector Sarah Tsukigawa, praising James’s all-around abilities.

The full White Ferns squad is: Sophie Devine (C), Suzie Bates, Eden Carson, Lauren Down, Izzy Gaze (WK), Maddy Green, Brooke Halliday, Bella James, Fran Jonas, Jess Kerr, Melie Kerr, Rosemary Mair, Molly Penfold. The series promises to be a closely fought contest between two cricketing powerhouses.

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