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Sport Nation
Two new names among White Ferns' centrally contracted players group for 2025/26
Sport Nation • June 18th, 2025 8:30 am
Bree Illing | Photo: Photosport
Bowler Bree Illing and batter Bella James have received their first White Ferns central contracts, the two new additions for 2025/26 announced by NZ Cricket on Wednesday.
The pair have been rewarded for their superb form playing for the Auckland Hearts and Otago Sparks respectively.
Illing, 21, has become the Hearts' leading wicket-taker, with her left-arm swing claiming 29 wickets across both formats at domestic level this season, resulting in ODI and T20 debuts against Sri Lanka.
James has been a key part of the Sparks' batting line-up, helping the team to consecutive Hallyburton Johnstone Shield titles.
Bree Illing brings fire to the White Ferns bowling attack | Sport Nation Cricket
Illing and James, who are currently on a New Zealand A tour in England, assume the contract vacancies left by the recently retired Hayley Jensen, and Sophie Devine - who opted for a casual playing agreement.
“Bree had an outstanding series against Sri Lanka,” said White Ferns coach Ben Sawyer.
“To show up the way she did against a world class batter like Chamari shows she’s ready for international cricket.
“Bella’s been a consistent performer at the domestic level and had a great debut series against Australia last year.
“She’s got the competencies that we believe will succeed at the international level.”
White Ferns centrally contracted for 2025-2026: Suzie Bates, Eden Carson, Lauren Down, Izzy Gaze, Maddy Green, Brooke Halliday, Bree Illing, Polly Inglis, Bella James, Fran Jonas, Jess Kerr, Melie Kerr, Rosemary Mair, Molly Penfold, Georgia Plimmer, Hannah Rowe, Lea Tahuhu
