A Milestone in the Making
Lea Tahuhu, the 35-year-old fast-bowling stalwart, marked a significant milestone in her career during New Zealand’s sixth group-stage match against India in the 13th ICC Women’s ODI World Cup 2025, captained by Harmanpreet Kaur. Kicking off at 3 PM IST, this landmark appearance is yet another proud chapter in a career defined by resilience, speed, and enduring excellence that has made Tahuhu synonymous with the White Ferns’ pace attack over the past 14 years.
From Debut to Dominance
Tahuhu’s journey began against Australia in Brisbane on June 14, 2011, heralding the arrival of a bowler destined to become a match-winner for New Zealand. Her career is more than just statistics—it is a story of evolution, passion, and impact across formats and generations.
In 101 ODIs, she has captured 124 wickets at an average of 27.87 and an economy rate of 4.52, highlighted by three four-wicket hauls and a memorable five-wicket performance. One of her finest ODI spells came on September 21, 2021, in Leicester, where she claimed 5 wickets for 37 runs against England, guiding New Zealand to a thrilling three-wicket victory. Her contributions with the bat have also proven crucial, accumulating 440 runs at a strike rate of 81.93 from 68 innings.
The Century Mark: 100th ODI Appearance
Earlier this month, Tahuhu reached her 100th ODI appearance against Bangladesh in Guwahati, underscoring her enduring class. She delivered a vital 12* off 4 balls and followed it up with a three-wicket haul (6-0-22-3) to secure New Zealand’s first victory in the tournament, a 100-run triumph. This performance epitomized her signature blend of impact, discipline, and timing.
T20I Excellence
Tahuhu made her T20I debut on June 25, 2011, against India in Bristol and quickly became the heartbeat of New Zealand’s pace unit in the shortest format. In 98 T20Is, she has claimed 95 wickets at an impressive average of 19.96 with an economy of 6.41, including two four-wicket hauls.
Her standout T20I performance occurred in Christchurch on December 2, 2022, when she tore through Bangladesh’s lineup with remarkable figures of 4-0-6-4, setting up a commanding 132-run victory. With the bat, she has added 247 runs at a strike rate of 108.81, often providing crucial late-order impetus.
A World Cup Specialist
Tahuhu has consistently shone on the World Cup stage. She made her ODI World Cup debut on February 1, 2013, against South Africa in Cuttack, taking 2 wickets for 27 runs in a commanding 151-run win. Across four editions and 22 World Cup matches, she has established herself as New Zealand’s all-time leading wicket-taker in Women’s ODI World Cup history with 35 wickets at an average of 20.17 and an economy rate of 4.28. Her best figures of 4 for 27 came against Sri Lanka in Mumbai, earning her Player of the Match honors.
In the ongoing 2025 edition, Tahuhu leads New Zealand’s bowling with 9 wickets at 12.33 and an economy rate of 4.26 from four innings, ranking fifth overall in the tournament’s bowling charts. Her consistent performances and leadership with the new ball have been pivotal in keeping the White Ferns competitive amid rain-affected matches.
Leading by Example
Under the captaincy of Sophie Devine, New Zealand enters their sixth fixture against India with four points from five matches, reflecting early setbacks, gradual recovery, and the determination of senior players like Tahuhu to keep semi-final aspirations alive. Her precise seam movement, calm demeanor under pressure, and unwavering commitment make her a role model for the next generation of cricketers.
The 200-Match Milestone: A Testament to Legacy
Reaching the 200-match milestone is more than a number; it is a celebration of commitment, durability, and excellence. As Tahuhu takes the field under the Mumbai sun on October 23, the cheers from the White Ferns camp honor not just a bowler’s longevity, but the enduring legacy of a leader who has defined New Zealand cricket for over a decade.
