First Indian-Born Cricketer’s debut for the White Ferns

Nensi Patel, 23, has created history in New Zealand cricket, becoming the first Indian-born cricketer to represent the White Ferns in international cricket.

The off-spin all-rounder made her debut on Monday night in the white-ball series against Zimbabwe at Seddon Park, a milestone that resonated beyond the boundary ropes. For many within the Indian diaspora in New Zealand, it was a moment of quiet pride as Patel stepped out in the silver fern for the first time.

Her return to the national side followed an impressive domestic summer with Northern Brave, where she delivered consistently with both bat and ball. That form earned her a call-up for the Zimbabwe series, with head coach Ben Sawyer indicating she would take on a frontline spin role alongside captain Melie Kerr, particularly in the absence of Eden Carson.

For Patel, however, the numbers and selection chatter faded once she walked onto the field.

"I really enjoyed being out here for the first time, wearing the fern and representing the country. Playing at Seddon was awesome as well, playing on home ground, I felt really great out there. First over, a bit of nerves, but going into that second over felt a bit more settled, so I think it kind of just improved from there," Mykhel quoted her as saying.

The occasion was made more meaningful with her parents in the stands, witnessing a journey they had supported from its earliest days.

Photo: Nensi Patel/Instagram

"It means a lot, like they've supported me throughout this whole journey. Seeing them out in the crowd is a really special moment. Making them proud and making my family back in India proud, it's a big moment," Mykhel quoted her as saying.

While the historic nature of her selection has since been widely noted, Patel revealed she was initially unaware that she was the first Indian-origin player to represent New Zealand at international level.

Her debut comes at a transitional phase for the White Ferns, with Melie Kerr leading her first series as permanent captain and several senior players unavailable due to injury or workload management. In that context, Patel’s arrival signals both renewal and evolution within the squad.

From domestic cricket in New Zealand to the international arena, Patel’s rise reflects the changing face of the game. Her debut stands not only as a personal achievement, but as a broader marker of how the pathways into elite sport continue to open for diverse communities across the country.