In a significant piece of news for New Zealand women’s cricket, experienced all-rounder Sophie Devine has formally announced that she will retire from One Day Internationals (ODIs) after the 2025 ICC Women’s ODI World Cup comes to an end. The news was confirmed by New Zealand Cricket (NZC) on Tuesday, June 17.
Post-World Cup, the 35-year-old veteran will not be signing up for a full-time central contract. She will instead switch to a casual playing deal for the 2025–26 season, enabling her to contribute selectively while being able to have greater personal balance. The move will also clear the way for a younger player to sign up for a full-time central contract, with NZC set to release the revised 17-player contract list shortly.
Sophie Devine’s ODI career is an impressive one. Having started her international career as a No. 11, she slowly developed into one of the most consistent and destructive New Zealand batters. Her 50-over record is proof of her longevity and quality:
Matches: 152 ODIs (second-most for New Zealand, behind Suzie Bates)
Runs Scored: 3990 (4th highest in New Zealand women)
Centuries: 8 (2nd behind Bates)
Fifties: 16
Wickets Taken: 107 (2nd behind Lea Tahuhu)
Her capability to steer games with bat as well as ball made her a crucial addition to the White Ferns for almost two decades.
Devine became New Zealand’s permanent captain in 2020, infusing robust leadership into a transitioning team. Although the ODI World Cups have continued to elude them, New Zealand could not advance beyond the group phase in the previous two installments. The team achieved a historic T20 World Cup triumph in 2024, which still stands as the highlight of their captaincy.
Looking back on her decision, Sophie Devine stated:
“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. Everyone must know I’m focused and dedicated to giving this group everything I can before I step away.”
She was also looking forward to the future of the team:
“I’m excited by where this young group is going and I’m looking forward to playing my part in the next six to nine months.”
Liz Green, NZC’s Head of Women’s High Performance, praised Devine’s incredible contribution:
“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 she’ll remain available on a case-by-case basis while allowing room for emerging talent to rise.”
What’s Next for Sophie Devine and the White Ferns?
Sophie Devine will make her last appearance in the format at the 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup, with New Zealand getting their campaign underway on October 1 when they take on Australia in Indore. Her replacement as captain will be named before the New Zealand home summer later this year.
As Sophie Devine exits ODIs, her place as one of New Zealand’s finest cricketing legends remains unscathed. Her unmatched contributions across the genres, particularly ODIs, will be remembered for a long time to come.
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