New Zealand's veteran women's cricketer, Sophie Devine, has announced her retirement from One Day International (ODI) cricket. She has clarified that she will bid farewell to this format after the Women's ODI World Cup in 2025, to be hosted by India.
Sports News: New Zealand women's cricket team captain and veteran all-rounder Sophie Devine has announced her retirement from ODI cricket. Her final tournament will be the Women's ODI World Cup in 2025, hosted by India. This news is emotionally charged for the cricketing world, as Devine has been the backbone of the Kiwi team for the past decade and a half. The relief, however, is that she will continue to contribute to New Zealand in T20 Internationals.
Debut at 17, Now Mistress of 152 ODIs
Sophie Devine began her ODI career in 2006 at the tender age of 17. Today, she is among New Zealand's most experienced players. Having played 152 ODIs, Devine is the second-highest ODI player for New Zealand after Suzie Bates. This figure is not just a number; it testifies to her 18 years of hard work, consistency, and dedication.
Sophie Devine has scored 3,990 runs in ODI cricket, and is just 54 runs away from becoming New Zealand's third-highest run-scorer. If she scores 54 runs in the World Cup 2025, she will surpass Debbie Hockley to reach third place. She has also scored 8 centuries and numerous crucial half-centuries. Suzie Bates leads this list with 13 centuries.
A Bowling Legend Too
Devine is not just a brilliant batter; she is also a superb bowler. She has taken 107 wickets in ODIs and is the second bowler for New Zealand to take over 100 wickets. Only Leigh Tahuhu is ahead of her. Despite being a fast bowler, she has adapted to every pitch, providing her team with crucial wickets at critical moments.
Devine has also proven herself as a captain for New Zealand. She took over the captaincy during a challenging period and gave opportunities to many new players. Her ultimate goal is now to win the World Cup in India and bring a historic conclusion to this chapter. New Zealand has always struggled in Indian conditions, making the experience and inspiration of Captain Devine all the more crucial for the team.
Outside Central Contract, T20 Career Continues
Just before the New Zealand Cricket Board was to release the list of central contracts for women players, Devine's announcement made it clear that she would not be included in the ODI contract. However, she will remain active in the T20 format and continue to serve New Zealand in upcoming series, including the Women's T20 World Cup.
Sophie Devine's retirement from ODIs marks the end of an era. She has been a player who lived cricket not just as a game, but as a passion. She will always be remembered for her passion on the field, leadership abilities, and dedication to the sport.
