New Zealand Cricket to host top international women's tournament

New Zealand Cricket has confirmed it will host a women's international quadrangular tournament at Lincoln University, Canterbury, next year.

India, Australia and England have accepted New Zealand Cricket's invitation and will contest the tournament along with the TelstraClear White Ferns.

"We are delighted to be hosting a tournament that will see four of the top sides in women's international cricket competing against one another," said New Zealand Cricket operations manager John Reid.

"The last time the four teams played together was in New Zealand at the World Cup in December 2000 when the TelstraClear White Ferns beat the Indians in the semi-finals before claiming an historic win against the Australians in the final.

"I think this will be a fiercely contested tournament and I have no doubt we will see some really outstanding women's cricket."

In what will be a great opportunity for New Zealand's up and coming players to get some international experience, the New Zealand 'A' team will play one practice match against all four teams.

Although the official draw for the tournament has not yet been finalised, it is proposed that each team will play each other twice and the opening match will be on January 26.

The final is scheduled for February 8 with a reserve day on February 9. There will be a play-off for third and fourth on February 7.

Traditionally at that time of year the TelstraClear White Ferns would be contesting the annual Rosebowl Series with Australia. New Zealand Cricket is currently discussing the possibility of incorporating this into the quadrangular tournament.