Cricket: Women's competition delayed

The national women's cricket competition will start later than usual this season to give top players time to get back from the White Ferns' tour of India.

The first round of the State League will start on December 27, with the final played at the home ground of the top qualifiers on January 31.

New Zealand Cricket women's manager Catherine Campbell said the later start would allow the White Ferns to return from their tour.

"It's important that we have our best players competing in the State League as it lifts the standard of play considerably," she said.

Campbell said the intensity of this season's competition would be heightened because players would be pushing their claims for selection in the White Ferns and New Zealand A teams.

"The White Ferns team to contest next year's six-match home-and-away Rosebowl Series with Australia will be chosen at the conclusion of the league," she said.

"Players who miss out on the upcoming tour to India will therefore have an opportunity to press for a place in that side.

"There is also the opportunity to gain selection for the New Zealand A team who will play matches against Australia and the White Ferns before the start of the Rosebowl."

Auckland have held the title for four consecutive seasons.

- NZPA