New Zealand And West Indies To Kick-Start ICC Women's World Cup

TAURANGA: After a year's delay caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, the ICC Women's Cricket World Cup will finally commence from March 4. Hosts New Zealand will take on the West Indies at the Bay Oval in Tauranga.

New Zealand head into the tournament off the back of a 4-1 series win against India and a thumping victory over Australia in their second warm-up match, including 161 not out for captain Sophie Devine.

"It's hugely exciting. It's been a tournament that's long been coming up with Covid delays here and there but to think that we are finally here, tomorrow it all kicks off, it is certainly extremely exciting. I know this group is ready, we have obviously had fantastic prep, we have come off a heavy diet of cricket over the summer and I don't think we could be any better prepared heading into this World Cup, so we're really excited to finally get going. It'll be interesting to see how the sleep goes tonight. I've tried to have a few naps today and they've not been that successful!" said Sophie ahead of the tournament opener.

The last time New Zealand won the ICC Women's Cricket World Cup, it was in 2000 where the hosts' saw off a thrilling challenge from Australia to win the trophy on home soil. Sophie is well aware of the same expectations from her team to reach the final on March 3. IANS

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