Eden Carson, who made her international debut against South Africa during the 2022 Birmingham Commonwealth Games, has emerged as a prominent figure in New Zealand’s bowling squad.
Currently, New Zealand is touring India for a three-match ODI series as part of the ICC Women’s Championship 2022-25. Carson has been in good form, taking four wickets across the two ODIs played so far. The team faced disappointment in the first match, losing by 59 runs, but made a strong comeback with a convincing 76-run victory in the second.
Reflecting on her time in India, Carson stated, “Coming over to India where conditions usually suit spinners has really helped as well. I’ve been able to back up performances, both in the field and bowling.”
During the recently completed ICC T20 World Cup 2024 in the United Arab Emirates, she played a vital role, with her strong performances being key to her team’s success. Carson secured nine wickets for 147 runs, achieving an average of 16.33 and an economy rate of 6.39.
This achievement held special significance for Carson as she fought hard to earn a permanent place on the team. Reflecting on her experience during the tournament, she said, “It gave me a bit of a confidence boost, also (after) being in and out of the squad over the last year as well, depending on conditions.”
The White Ferns confronted a demanding schedule following the World Cup, with little time for recovery before transitioning to ODIs. Their fatigue was evident in the first game, but the team regrouped remarkably for the second. “Mentally we were all tired, but I think being able to push and support each other has been really good,” Carson noted, underscoring the team’s determination.
Adjusting from T20 to ODIs demanded quick adaptation for Carson. She admitted that the shift took her by surprise: “It was a bit of a shock to the system. In the first game I kinda still had my T20 cap on.”
As they aim to conclude their six-week overseas journey on a high note, New Zealand is intent on securing a win in the final match. “Definitely hungry. It would really top off the last six weeks we have had, coming off the World Cup win and then being able to finish off a series win against India in India would be really good,” Carson conveyed, stressing the significance of a strong finish.
Upon returning from India, the White Ferns are excited to celebrate their recent successes with their supporters back home. Reflecting on the World Cup experience, Carson expressed, “Going into the [World Cup] tournament I don’t think a lot of people really saw us winning or even getting out of the group phase, so to be able to do that for New Zealand, our family and friends has really meant a lot and something I am really proud of.”
So far in her career, Carson has participated in 42 international matches, including 11 ODIs and 31 T20Is, taking a total of 49 wickets (10 in ODIs and 39 in T20Is). After their tour in India, the White Ferns will face their next challenge with a three-match ODI series against Australia, set to begin in Wellington on December 19.
Image Source: Eden Carson @ Instagram
