The White Ferns arrived in the Caribbean this week for their tour against the West Indies women and are determined to improve on their most recent trip there last year.
We spoke to White Ferns batsman Katie Perkins ahead of the team’s first match to find out how preparation had gone and what she hoped to achieve on the tour.
Q. So Katie, arrived back in the West Indies, were you a bit better prepared for the heat this time?
KP: Probably more mentally prepared than anything. I know what to expect in terms of the heat over here, but physically it's always a little bit of a shock to the system when coming out of a winter back home.
Q. What do you remember the most about the pitches from last year?
KP: That they can be a bit slow and vary in bounce at times. For me as a batter I need to just focus on playing the ball late and close to my body.
Q. It’s been a long winter, have you been working on anything particular during that time to improve your game?
KP: Just my batting plans really. I've tried to face lots of different bowling and get as comfortable and confident as possible in what my plan is when I'm at the crease.
Q. Back with team now, how excited are you to get back out on the field?
KP: We have a great unit at the moment, including the wider squad as well. There are a lot of good people in the White Ferns right now and it is making for a great team environment that means we have a lot of fun together on and off the field. Playing international cricket together is the massive bonus!!
Q. What do you expect from the West Indies side you’re set to face?
KP: They'll want revenge after we clean swept them back in NZ last summer. I'm under no illusions that the West Indies girls will be bringing their best cricket and feel a lot more confident now that we are back on their turf.
Q. Which West Indies player do you think the team need to limit the impact of the most?
KP: It's a toss up between Stafanie Taylor and Deandra Dottin. Stafanie is a world class all rounder that can have a huge influence in all facets of the game, but Dottin has an incredible X-factor that makes her one of the most impressive cricketers you could wish to see - blink and she may have just taken the game away from you before you've had a chance to react.
Q. How motivated is this group to back your strong home series against them earlier this year?
KP: What I've seen from my team mates in terms of focused preparation and work ethic over the last few months, I would say this group is hugely motivated to do something special in the Caribbean. This team wants to create a proud legacy.
Q. Your first opportunity to compete in the ICC Women’s Championship – another great incentive for the side?
KP. Absolutely! It's not just a series win we are playing for now, but points to ensure we qualify for the 2017 ICC World Cup. Every game is huge.
Q. And finally, have you got your own personal goals for the tour?
KP: My goal as a White Fern is pretty simple - to be an integral member who leads by example and consistently contributes to the team both on and off the field. If I do this then I know I will make significant contributions to the side and gives us a better chance of regularly winning matches.
Q. Thanks very much for your time and best of luck for the tour!
KP: No worries and a big thank you for all the support from everyone!
