Six Southern Vipers stars have been selected in the IT20 squad for New Zealand series.
The Vipers players - Lauren Bell, Maia Bouchier, Charlie Dean, Freya Kemp, Linsey Smith, and Danni Wyatt will feature in England Women’s squad as they tackle the Kiwis in the upcoming matches.
The six players are also expected to be available for the Charlotte Edwards Cup Finals Day on Saturday, June 22 in Derby.
The opening IT20 between England Women and New Zealand is scheduled to kick off at Utilita Bowl on Saturday, July 6.
Tickets for opening match are nearly sold out, signalling massive interest in the encounter.
Scheduled matches afterward will be held at varied venues including the 1st Central County Ground (July 9), Canterbury (July 11), the Kia Oval (July 13), and Lord’s (July 17).
The players will be part of the England squad (Image: Dave Vokes)
For Ms Kemp, this series comes as a timely return to the field as an all-rounder following her rehabilitation from injury during winter and the first half of summer.
Jon Lewis, England Women’s head coach, expressed his anticipation for the series saying: "This five-match series against a strong New Zealand side is really important for us and also vital preparation as we build towards the T20 World Cup in Bangladesh.
"We are pleased to welcome Freya Kemp back as an all-rounder and we will hopefully see her bowl across this series as she returns from injury."
Ahead of the series, all six Vipers are also prepared for the Charlotte Edwards Cup Finals Day in Derby.
On this day, the Vipers will face off against the South East Stars in their semi-final match at 2.30pm, with the final scheduled for 6.45pm.
On a high, Ms Bouchier recently celebrated her highest T20 score of 93 in the victory against the Stars.
Also, Ms Dean and Ms Smith both claimed three wickets each, leaving the visitors at a meagre score of 66.
The opening IT20 at Utilita Bowl is on Saturday, July 6.
Tickets are running out quickly as fans hurry to secure their seats.
Hospitality spaces and pitch-facing bedrooms at Hilton Southampton - Utilita Bowl are also becoming extremely limited.
For full details about England Women v New Zealand at Utilita Bowl, fans are directed to visit www.utilitabowl.com/internationals.
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