Replacements confirmed as Kerr, Devine to miss opening T20I

Sawyer said Plimmer was an obvious choice to come in, with Greig worthy of selection after a strong domestic year.

“Georgia has been a regular part of our group for some time now and she’ll be involved in the ODIs - so we have full confidence she can come in and contribute in the opening T20."

“Mikaela has been impressive for the Central Hinds all summer and deserves an opportunity to join the group for the first time,” said Sawyer.

“She’s shown this season that she possesses power and hitting ability which are important qualities in T20 cricket and we believe she has the ability to contribute if selected in the XI.”

Suzie Bates will lead the team as captain for the Tuesday opener in Dunedin.

Plimmer and Greig will remain in Dunedin after tomorrow’s match and reassemble with the New Zealand A one-day squad on Thursday ahead of the first 50-over match against England A on Saturday.

New Zealand squad for first T20I v England

Suzie Bates (c), Eden Carson, Bernadine Bezuidenhout, Izzy Gaze, Maddy Green, Mikaela Greig, Brooke Halliday, Fran Jonas, Jess Kerr, Rosemary Mair, Georgia Plimmer, Hannah Rowe, Lea Tahuhu