Devine to retire from ODIs after ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup
New Zealand's ODI captain to bow out from format after Women's Cricket World Cup in India and Sri Lanka.
New Zealand Women's ODI captain Sophie Devine has announced she will retire from the format at the end of this year's ICC Women's Cricket World Cup.
Considered one of the best all-rounders in women’s cricket, Devine has made 3990 runs in the format, hitting eight of her nine international centuries, and also taking 107 wickets.
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Devine feels the conclusion of the tournament in India and Sri Lanka is right time to retire from the format.
“It feels like the right time for me to start stepping away,” said Devine.
“I feel very fortunate to have New Zealand Cricket'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.”
The decision means Devine will also opt for a casual playing agreement with New Zealand Cricket for the 2025-26 season, and will not be one of the 17 players centrally contracted, though would be available for T20Is.
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New Zealand Cricket Head of Women’s High Performance Liz Green said Devine is to be commended for her service.
“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,” said Green.
“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.”
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NZC Chief Executive Scott Weenink continued in the praise for Devine’s contribution.
“Sophie has been an extraordinary leader and ambassador for the White Ferns,” he said.
"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 allrounders and her commitment to nurturing the next generation makes this a positive step for both her and the White Ferns.”
Devine will remain skipper at the 2025 ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup beginning on September 30, and a decision on a new captain will be made ahead of the New Zealand home summer.