The tournament carries extra significance for New Zealand’s experienced stars. Sophie Devine, Suzie Bates and Lea Tahuhu are all expected to be playing their final global event, adding emotional weight to the White Ferns’ campaign.
Under new captain Melie Kerr, New Zealand will be hoping to give their veterans the perfect send-off. Having lifted the trophy in 2024, the defending champions know expectations are high, but they also know opportunities like this do not come around often.
