Auckland Cricket is proud to congratulate five HEARTS players on being awarded WHITE FERNS central contracts for the 2026-27 season.

Experienced internationals Izzy Gaze, Maddy Green, Brooke Halliday, Bree Illing, Fran Jonas and Molly Penfold have all been included in the 17-player list announced by New Zealand Cricket.

The group reflects Auckland’s continued contribution to the national women’s programme, with each player playing a key role for both the Hearts and WHITE FERNS in recent seasons.

Wicketkeeper-batter Gaze and all-rounder Halliday remain established members of the national side, while Green continues to provide leadership and experience in the middle order. Penfold and Illing have cemented her place in New Zealand’s pace-bowling stocks, and spinner Jonas has retained her contract following further international opportunities, including a recent New Zealand A tour to Sri Lanka.

The announcement comes as the WHITE FERNS prepare for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in England, with Auckland’s contracted players set to play an important role in New Zealand’s campaign.

Auckland Cricket congratulates Izzy, Maddy, Brooke, Fran and Molly on this well-deserved recognition and wishes them every success for the season ahead.

Read more: https://www.nzc.nz/news-items/young-trio-earn-white-ferns-contracts/

Article added: Monday 15 June 2026