CENTRAL HINDS rising star EMMA McLEOD and Hinds and WHITE FERNS alumna SARA McGLASHAN will both be on the plane to the upcoming ICC Under 19 Women's World Cup that begins soon in Malaysia.

Batter McLeod is one of five players returning for a second world cup in the age-band, having starred in the unaugural tournament for up-and-coming female stars two years ago in South Africa.

A contracted Central Hind at just 18, McLeod already has an impressive cricketing CV and shapes as a genuine player of the future.

The only CD youngster in the squad joins 10 other Domestically contracted players heading off on the back of a concerted two-year pathway programme at NZC level.

Increased development opportunities have included winter training camps, a Tri-Series in Australia, and the inaugural ‘Bates v Devine’ T20 tournament in 2024.

NZC's High Performance coach and Head Coach for the campaign in Malaysia McGLASHAN said it was an exciting time for all those selected.

 

Central Hinds alumna SARA McGLASHAN | PHOTOSPORT

 

“Representing New Zealand is a massive moment in any career, and World Cups are rare opportunities to showcase your skills on the global stage,” she said.

“This squad brings a mix of skill, athleticism, and a hunger to learn, making it a group full of potential for future success.”

McGlashan said the success of the pathway programme was evident.

“I’m really pleased with how successful the programme has been in terms of player development - the results were evident in players’ improved ability during the National U19 Tournament.

“The opportunity to have contact with players during winter camps ensured there was constant development, even in the off-season.”

PHOTOSPORT

McGlashan acknowledged the depth of talent coming through the pathway system. “This age group is full of exciting talent, with many players already having valuable Domestic experience.

“The standard of the National U19 Tournament improves every year which is a testament to the talent pool and the efforts of the pathway programme within the Major Associations."

McGlashan will be supported on the coaching staff by Wellington Blaze Assistant Coach Luke Woodcock and Auckland Hearts Assistant Coach Matt Blandford.

New Zealand will play two warm-up fixtures against USA and West Indies on 13 and 15 January respectively, followed by three matches against its Pool C opponents, South Africa, Nigeria and Samoa.

New Zealand Under 19

2025 ICC Under-19 World Cup Squad

Malaysia

Tash Wakelin - captain, Northern Districts

Elizabeth Buchanan - Auckland

Kate Chandler - Wellington

Sophie Court - Auckland

Hannah Francis - Wellington

Kate Irwin - Auckland

Rishika Jaswal - Auckland

Louisa Kotkamp - Otago

Ayaan Lambat - Auckland

Emma McLeod - Central Districts

Hannah O’Connor - Otago

Darcy-Rose Prasad - Canterbury

Anika Tauwhare - Auckland

Anika Todd - Auckland

Eve Wolland - Northern Districts

FULL SCHEDULE

Matches will be broadcast live in NZ on Sky Sport

and live-scored at  nzc.nz and the NZC App

Article added: Wednesday 8 January 2025