Australia captain Alyssa Healy won the toss and chose to bat first against New Zealand in the 2025 Women's ODI World Cup opener at Holkar Stadium on Wednesday. The seven-time champions brought back left-arm spinner Sophie Molineux for her first appearance since knee surgery while resting veteran pacer Megan Schutt. Darcie Brown and Kim Garth will handle the pace attack for the defending titleholders.
New Zealand captain Sophie Devine said she would have batted first as well on the fresh pitch. The White Ferns are competing in their first ODI match in six months. Devine expressed gratitude for representing her country again and emphasized the importance of the team dynamic over results. Experienced batters Suzie Bates and Georgia Plimmer anchor a balanced New Zealand lineup.
New Zealand captain Sophie Devine said she would have batted first as well on the fresh pitch. The White Ferns are competing in their first ODI match in six months. Devine expressed gratitude for representing her country again and emphasized the importance of the team dynamic over results. Experienced batters Suzie Bates and Georgia Plimmer anchor a balanced New Zealand lineup.
