New Zealand White Ferns captain Sophie Devine lifts the trophy as players celebrate winning the Women's T20 World Cup. 2024. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
The White Ferns are back in the spotlight confident they're all primed for a good crack at a trophy that's eluded them for a quarter of a century.
The Rose Bowl trophy, played between New Zealand and Australia in the 50 over format of the game, goes on the line over the next five days, with the first of the three games in Wellington on Thursday.
Australia have held the Rose Bowl since 1999, but the New Zealanders will be bouyed by their T20 World Cup win in the UAE in October.
Star New Zealand allrounder Melie Kerr, who hadn't even been born in 1999, believes that World Cup victory couldn't have set them up better.
The Rose Bowl has been played for since 1985 and in that time Australia have won it 22 times and New Zealand just three.
Kerr, 24, who is already one of the most experienced players in the side, knows they'll be facing a typical aggressive Australian team.
"They bat deep and they take you on, but in saying that, that also brings wicket opportunities," Kerr said.
"We've got to be brave and stick to our strengths because we know they'll come hard, but that's an exciting challenge when teams do that."
Amelia Kerr of New Zealand Photo: PHOTOSPORT
White Ferns batting coach Craig McMillan knows a lot about what Australia, having played the trans-Tasman rivals 51 times during his international career.
McMillan, renowed for his "fight fire with fire" attitude during his own playing days, said this year's World Cup win was massive for the White Ferns.
"When you win something like a World Cup, how can you not have belief that you're a good side, you're good players and you belong on the international stage," he said.
But he's well aware, not winning that title will fuel the Australians, who he's picking will be formidable opponents.
"Australians are always aggressive, they always come forward. I think it's important you hold your ground, you take a step forward, you're not passive.
"Australians tend to like to bully other sides and look for weaknesses so it's important you stand up to them," he said.
All three games are being played at the Basin Reserve, with New Zealand Cricket hoping for a record crowd for a women's international.
