Knight receives maiden ODI call up for South Africa series

Knight receives maiden ODI call up for South Africa series

Fast bowler Kayley Knight has earned her maiden Women's ODI call-up for New Zealand's upcoming one-day series against South Africa.

Knight debuted in the T20I side that recently swept Zimbabwe 3-0, taking two wickets across two games.

A member of the 2023 U19 T20 World Cup squad, Knight earned the call-up on the back of strong domestic performances. She took 10 wickets for Northern Brave, their joint second-highest wicket-taker in the 2025/26 Super Smash.

Her 50-over form has also been impressive. She helped Brave to their maiden Hallyburton Johnstone Shield title, claiming 17 wickets to finish as their second-highest wicket-taker, including two in the final.

Head coach Ben Sawyer praised Knight's inclusion: "It's great to call Kayley up for her first ODI series. Kayley's got good pace and control, and a short ball that regularly challenges batters. She was an integral part of the Brave's title-winning HBJ campaign and has shown she has the tools to hold her in good stead in the international game."

Suzie Bates, Flora Devonshire, and Georgia Plimmer all return from injury, slotting into the squad in place of Emma McLeod, Polly Inglis, and Bella James. Knight replaces Molly Penfold.

New Zealand currently lead the T20I series 3-1, with the final game on Wednesday, March 25. The first of three ODIs is scheduled for Sunday, March 29.

New Zealand squad for South Africa ODIs: Melie Kerr (C), Suzie Bates, Flora Devonshire, Izzy Gaze, Maddy Green, Brooke Halliday, Bree Illing, Jess Kerr, Kayley Knight, Rosemary Mair, Nensi Patel, Georgia Plimmer, Izzy Sharp.