White Ferns captain Amy Satterthwaite has announced she will be taking an indefinite leave of absence from cricket to have her first child with wife and teammate Lea Tahuhu.
The 32-year-old said she'd return when she felt the time was right but has a tentative eye on being back for the Women's World Cup in New Zealand in 2021.
"Lea and I are overjoyed to share the news that I'm expecting our first child early in the new year," said Satterthwaite.
"It is a special time in our lives and we can't wait for this new chapter. I am very lucky to have great support from NZ Cricket with regard to taking a break from the game to have a family.
"I feel I still have a lot to give to the game and look forward to working my way back."
Until then, Satterthwaite intends to remain with the squad in an advisor and mentor role.
NZC chief executive David White confirmed Satterthwaite would be at the front of the queue when the new increased pay agreement for women players in NZ comes into effect.
She'll be the first player to benefit from the pregnancy leave provision included in the new agreement, meaning she'll be paid her full retainer while not being required to train or play.
Satterthwaite is one of New Zealand's most prolific run-scorers, having tallied 5347 runs from 218 limited overs internationals.
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