Mair in line to make ODI debut for NZ
WELLINGTON: Central Hinds bowler Rosemary Mair is in line to make her oneday international debut for the White Ferns, after being named in the White Ferns squad to take on Australia in this month’s threematch Rose Bowl series.
Mair, who has impressed in the twenty20 series against India, will bolster the pace bowling attack as the White Ferns look to win their first Rose Bowl series since 1999.
‘‘We want to give Rosemary an opportunity,’’ head coach Haidee Tiffen said.
‘‘She bowls that hard, heavy length and challenges the batters, so we are looking at what she can offer in the oneday format.’’
The 14strong squad also features the welcome return of Katey Martin, the side’s top runscorer when the White Ferns played across the Tasman late last year.
‘‘Katey brings plenty of experience to the middle order and is a proven performer at the international level,’’ Tiffen said.
‘‘She also provides plenty of energy behind the stumps which not only helps the bowlers but gets the team up.’’
While results did not go the White Ferns’ way in their most recent ODI series against India, Tiffen believes the side has the quality to compete against the classy Southern Stars.
‘‘We talk a lot about partnerships and I predict it is going to be a highscoring series.
‘‘For us, it’s about working through the ups and downs of ODI cricket — the hunger and desire is there to step up against Aussie in their own backyard.’’
Tiffen also talked about the need to execute the basic skills for long periods and is excited about the prospect of the pace and bounce in the Australian wickets.
‘‘Lea Tahuhu played a WBBL game at the Waca. I’m looking forward to seeing her on a bouncy wicket, bowling fast and taking it to the Australian batting lineup.’’
The White Ferns travel to Perth next Monday. The first ODI is against the Southern Stars on February 22 at the Waca. — RNZ