Former White Ferns captain Amy Satterthwaite will return to international cricket, after being named in the 17-strong NZ squad to tour Australia next month.
The Ferns face Australia in three Twenty-20s and three one-day internationals, starting on September 26, with all six games scheduled for Brisbane's Allan Border Field.
Satterthwaite hasn't played for New Zealand since March last year, after giving birth to daughter Grace in January. Wife Lea Tahuhu has also been named in the Ferns squad.
"We are also thrilled to have Amy back fit and ready to play," says White Ferns coach Bob Carter.
"She has a proven record at the top of the order and has scored heavily against Australia in the past, so her experience will be invaluable."
All-rounder Jess Watkin, who last played for the White Ferns in 2018, also returns to the squad, while leg-spinner Deanna Doughty is the only new face in the side.
"We welcome Dee and Jess into the environment, and we're looking forward to working with them over an extended tour period," says Carter.
All-rounder Leigh Kasperek is currently in the UK and unavailable for selection, while batsman Anna Peterson also missed out, citing personal reasons.
The team will depart for Australia on September 9, before serving a two-week quarantine.
"The team has been working hard in winter camps over the past few months," says Carter. "It will be good to put what we've learnt in those sessions into practice against a top-quality opposition like Australia.
"We have a slightly bigger squad for this tour, given the strict rules and regulations in the current climate.
"However, the extra time together will be beneficial for the group and their development as cricketers."
White Ferns captain Sophie Devine says the team are absolutely buzzing at the prospect of getting back on the park.
"The team is extremely thankful to all those involved in making this tour a reality," she says.
"We hope the upcoming ODI and T20I matches can excite and entertain people in what's been a tough time for everyone. We're definitely going over there to bring back the Rose Bowl.
"The team are under no illusions - it's going to be a tough task taking on a world-class Australian team. We're an experienced group, and having Amy back in the fold only adds to our batting depth and on-field leadership.
"Every time you pull on the Fern, you do so with pride. The team have prepared well at winter camps and are looking forward to taking on Australia in their own backyard."
White Ferns' squad to tour Australia: Sophie Devine (c), Suzie Bates, Natalie Dodd, Deanna Doughty, Lauren Down, Maddy Green, Holly Huddleston, Hayley Jensen, Amelia Kerr, Jess Kerr, Rosemary Mair, Katey Martin, Katie Perkins, Hannah Rowe, Amy Satterthwaite, Lea Tahuhu, Jess Watkin
Tour Schedule:
T20I - September 26, 27, 30
ODI - October 3, 5, 7
