White Ferns call up Otago teenager

The White Ferns have named two new caps for next month’s limited overs series against the West Indies.

Otago teenager Kate Heffernan has been selected in the 13-strong T20I squad, with the 18-year-old left-arm seamer impressing coach Haidee Tiffen with her raw talent and athleticism.

Auckland batswoman Lauren Down, meanwhile, has made the ODI side off the back of another strong season with the Hallyburton Johnstone Shieldwinning Hearts.

‘‘The fact that Kate is a leftarmer was certainly a factor in her selection as she will bring that

point of difference,’’ Tiffen said.

‘‘Lauren’s been on our radar for a while in both formats and we also think she’s one for the future.

She’s explosive with the bat and is a terrific fielder across the park.’’

Canterbury Magicians allrounder and Kate Ebrahim (nee Broadmore) returns to the ODI squad, while Northern Spirit’s T20 leading run-scorer Natalie Dodd and pace-bowler Haley Jensen also return to the international scene in the T20 squad.

Experienced Auckland batswoman Katie Perkins has missed selection after having limited opportunities following a broken thumb in December.

Canterbury Magicians legspinner Erin Bermingham was unavailable for selection after taking an indefinite break from international cricket.

Suzie Bates will captain both sides, with the White Ferns meeting the Windies in three ODIs in Christchurch from March 4 before a five-game T20 series in the North Island.