Sophie Devine to Retire from ODI Cricket After World Cup
Sophie Devine's Retirement Announcement
New Delhi [India] - New Zealand's captain, Sophie Devine, has announced her retirement from One Day International (ODI) cricket, effective after the upcoming 50-Over World Cup scheduled in India and Sri Lanka later this year. Although she will step away from ODIs, Devine plans to remain available for T20 Internationals under a casual playing agreement for the 2025-26 season.
The 35-year-old's announcement comes just ahead of the release of New Zealand's 17-player women's contract list. Devine will continue to lead the White Ferns during this prestigious tournament, after which a new captain will be appointed to take her place.
Throughout her impressive 19-year career, Devine has established herself as one of the leading all-rounders in women's cricket. She made her international debut in 2006 at the young age of 17.
Devine ranks second for the most ODI appearances for the New Zealand women's team, trailing only Suzie Bates. She is also the fourth-highest run-scorer in ODIs, with 3,990 runs, and is poised to surpass the 4,000-run milestone, potentially moving ahead of Debbie Hockley by the end of the World Cup.
In terms of bowling, Devine has taken 107 wickets, placing her second among New Zealand women's all-time ODI wicket-takers. She became the permanent captain in 2020 and has since led the team to significant achievements, including a bronze medal at the 2022 Commonwealth Games and a historic ICC Women's T20 World Cup victory last year.
In a statement from New Zealand Cricket, Devine expressed, “It feels like the right time for me to start stepping away. I feel very fortunate to have NZC’s support in finding a solution that means I can still give to the White Ferns. It’s important that everyone knows I’m focused and dedicated to giving this group everything I can before I step away. I’m really excited by where this young group’s going and I’m looking forward to playing my part in the next six to nine months.”
Liz Green, head of women’s high performance, commented on Devine’s decision, stating, “Sophie’s given nearly 20 years of service to the White Ferns, and NZC is fully supportive of her quest to find more balance at this stage in her career. We’re pleased to be able to reach an agreement that means she can continue to be involved with the White Ferns on a case-by-case basis, whilst opening up the opportunity for another player to be contracted in full.”
Scott Weenink, NZC chief executive, added, “Sophie has been an extraordinary leader and ambassador for the White Ferns. Supporting her move to a casual playing agreement will allow her to continue contributing to the White Ferns environment. Her legacy as one of the game’s greatest all-rounders and her commitment to nurturing the next generation make this a positive step for both her and the White Ferns.”