Cricket: Fran Jonas celebrated as any 16-year-old would after finding out she just made the White Ferns

Cookies and cream ice cream was Fran Jonas’ flavour of choice when she was out with her friend and received the call that she had made the White Ferns squad.

At just 16 years old, Jonas has been named as a potential debutant alongside Northern Districts’ Brooke Halliday in the 13-strong White Ferns ODI squad set to play in the upcoming three-match series against England.

“I was like ‘whoa’, I didn’t really know what to say,” said Jonas.

“I’m really looking forward to learning a lot and just having a great experience out there.”

Studying at Baradene College in central Auckland, the year 12 student will have to learn how to balance schoolwork with international training.

“I’m not going to be at school too much which could be a bit of an issue, but hopefully I’ll be able to catch up.

“The school’s been really supportive already and I think that I’ll get a lot of help.”

Jonas, who has played for the Auckland Hearts since 2019, has already made a name for herself in domestic cricket by taking six wickets this Super Smash season at a strong economy rate of 5.5, but more importantly for ODI selection, nine in the Hallyburton Johnstone Shield one-day competition at an average of 16 and economy of 3.9.

White Ferns captain Sophie Devine is looking forward to having another left-arm spinner in the team.

“It’s huge … we certainly know the potential she has,” said Devine.

“She’s been on our radar for a little while now … and obviously the Hearts have done a fantastic job making sure she’s ready and prepared for that next step up and we’re excited to give her that opportunity.

“She’s got a great head on her shoulders. I was really impressed with her last year, during the Super Smash, just the way she was able to keep a really cool head under pressure, which I think is something that can be hard to train.”

Playing alongside stars like Amy Satterthwaite is “nerve-wracking” for Jonas but she can’t wait to take the opportunity.

“I just want to keep it simple and just do what I’ve been doing and hopefully it will be all good,” said Jonas.

“It really means a lot, it’s been a dream for a while and actually getting selected, it’s insane.”

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