Exciting bowling attack added to TelstraClear White Ferns

The TelstraClear White Ferns squad for the World Series of Women's Cricket 2003, which begins at Lincoln tomorrow, features an exciting bowling attack and the recall of State Wellington Blaze batsman Maia Lewis after an absence of six years.

New Zealand Cricket women's convener of selectors Lesley Murdoch said today that she was thrilled to have Lewis back in the side.

Lewis captained the TelstraClear White Ferns in 1997, having made her international debut in 1991. She has played 42 One-Day Internationals and six Tests. Her highest score is 105 against Pakistan. An outstanding fielder, she has taken 16 catches.

After six years of knee trouble Lewis has played her way back to top form, captaining New Zealand A in 2000 and the State Wellington Blaze this season.

New caps include State Canterbury Magicians left-arm orthodox spin bowler Rebecca Steele, State Wellington Blaze right-arm medium pace bowler Amanda Green and State Auckland Hearts captain Michelle Lynch.

"A left-arm orthodox spin bowler is an exciting addition to the TelstraClear White Ferns and is rare in the women's game," said Murdoch.

Murdoch praised Steele's efforts which saw her develop her spin bowling style over the winter, having previously being a very skilled left-arm medium pace bowler.

"Green bowls consistent channels and can bowl both into the wind and down wind," Murdoch said.

"Lynch is an aggressive batsman who will be a great asset to the top order," Murdoch added.

The TelstraClear White Ferns squad to participate in the World Series of Women's Cricket 2003 is:

Emily Drumm (captain, State Auckland Hearts)
Nicola Browne (State Northern Spirit)
Amanda Green (State Wellington Blaze)
Frances King (State Wellington Blaze)
Maia Lewis (State Wellington Blaze)
Michelle Lynch (State Auckland Hearts)
Sara McGlashan (State Central Hinds)
Aimee Mason (State Central Hinds)
Louise Milliken (State Northern Spirit)
Nicola Payne (State Canterbury Magicians)
Kate Pulford (State Central Hinds)
Rebecca Rolls (State Auckland Hearts)
Rebecca Steele (State Canterbury Magicians)
Haidee Tiffen (State Canterbury Magicians)