New Zealand Cricket names sponsor for women's domestic competitions

New Zealand Cricket has named a sponsor for women's domestic tournaments in the country. Action Indoor Sports, who currently sponsor the New Zealand women's team, will now play a role in the domestic circuit as well. A full round of the newly named one-day and Twenty20 competitions will start on December 10.

"It's a very exciting phase with Twenty20 playing a major part in the growth of women's cricket," said Justin Vaughan, CEO of New Zealand Cricket. "We believe the shortened format will pave the way for greater involvement of women in cricket from school and club level through to Major Association and international arenas."

The NZC also announced the itinerary for the upcoming women's cricket season. New Zealand will host Australia in the annual Rose Bowl series in a split tour comprising two matches in late December and six matches in February next year. New Zealand lost the Rose Bowl last summer and will be keen to make amends this year. "The Twenty20 format suits our team and we have a good record against the Australians, so the make-up of the tour gives us a really good chance," coach Gary Stead said.

The first game of the Rose Bowl series will be played at Seddon Park in Hamilton on December 28.