Women's Twenty20s to be held on Friday nights

The new State League Twenty20 competition, which kicks off the women's season in New Zealand, will be played on Friday nights. Each team plays five State League Twenty20 matches with players in contention for international honours.

"The 20-over matches will act as a taster for the State League programme and give existing White Ferns more Twenty20 experience, while undoubtedly helping more talented young players emerge," said New Zealand Cricket women's manager Catherine Campbell.

The opening round of both tournaments sees defending State League champions State Canterbury Magicians travel to Blake Park, while Mt Maunganui will play State Northern Spirit.

The State League retains last season's format, with ten matches played in pairs over the course of the season. The top two sides in the table after ten rounds will compete in the State League final on Saturday 9 February, which will be hosted by the first-placed qualifier.