England vs New Zealand: Freya Kemp’s love of bowling did not wane during injury woes

Kemp, who made his last international appearance during the 2025 Ashes whitewash, has been bowling in training since January, although he will not bowl in the 50-over series against New Zealand, which starts on Sunday.

He worked closely with England fast bowling coach Chris Liddle, honed new skills that he hasn’t talked about and bowled in three of England’s five intrasquad matches in South Africa in March.

He is expected to bowl against the White Ferns and then India in the T20s that follow this three-match one-day international series and the T20 World Cup that starts on June 12.

“I really enjoy making an impact on the game in any way I can,” Kemp said.

“I love bowling. I don’t think I’ll ever give it up.”

Kemp, who batted at number nine on his international debut, also believes his injuries have allowed him to improve his batting.

He made his first professional century last year and played a full season as a senior player for the Perth Scorchers last winter.

Coach Charlotte Edwards, who worked with Kemp earlier this year at Southern Vipers, Hampshire, Southern Brave and now England, name-checked him when discussing the need for bowling all-rounders for the T20 World Cup.

Kemp is also a left-hander, something England have not featured consistently up top since Lydia Greenway’s retirement in 2016.

“There certainly is [improved as a batter]” said Kemp.

“I always talked to Lottie and she always helped me a lot with my swing, especially in game situations.

“I’d like to think other people feel the same way, but I’ve definitely become more well-rounded.”