AUCKLAND — June 2025: Promising young talents Bree Illing and Bella James have received their first WHITE FERNS central contracts for the 2025–26 season, marking a significant milestone in their rising cricket careers.
Bree Illing, a 21-year-old left-arm seamer from the Auckland Hearts, made her domestic debut in 2022 and quickly rose to prominence. She finished this season as the Hearts’ leading wicket-taker, claiming 29 wickets across formats—including 21 in the Hallyburton Johnstone Shield—with standout performances of 4-39 and 4-49.
Illing’s stellar season extended into international cricket, where she made her ODI and T20I debuts against Sri Lanka, picking up six wickets, including dismissing captain Chamari Athapaththu twice.
Bella James rewarded after years of domestic success
Bella James debuted for the Otago Sparks at just 16 years old in 2014 and has become a key figure in their batting lineup. Her steady contributions helped the Sparks claim back-to-back HBJ Shield titles. She made her WHITE FERNS debut during the Rosebowl series against Australia in December, immediately impressing with a six off Megan Schutt.
Illing and James replace Hayley Jensen (retired) and Sophie Devine (opted for a casual playing agreement) in the WHITE FERNS’ central contract list.
Selectors praise young duo’s readiness
Ben Sawyer, WHITE FERNS head coach, said: “Bree had an outstanding series against Sri Lanka. To take out a world-class batter like Chamari shows she’s ready for the international stage.”
“Bella has been a consistent performer in domestic cricket and proved herself against Australia. She brings the skillset we believe will thrive internationally.”
Liz Green, NZC Head of Women’s High Performance, added, “Both Bree and Bella thoroughly deserve their place. This is shaping up to be a huge year with ODI and T20 World Cups on the horizon.”
WHITE FERNS central contracts for 2025–26
The full list includes: 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.
