Sophie Devine, a mainstay of New Zealand will be leaving the ODI format after this year’s World Cup. She will therefore choose to sign a casual playing contract for the 2025–2026 season, New Zealand Cricket said on Tuesday, June 17.
In both ODIs and T20Is, the 35-year-old has enjoyed a stellar career for New Zealand. Over the course of her 152 appearances for the national team the second most after Suzie Bates. She has risen from her initial position as a No. 11 in 50-over cricket to become one of the most crucial hitters in the team. She has hit 16 fifties and eight hundred, second only to Bates. In addition to his fourth-highest 3990 runs. Devine has taken 107 wickets. Which is second only to Lea Tahuhu.
In 2020, the all-round player was named New Zealand’s permanent captain last year. They won the T20 World Cup under her direction. In the last two tournaments. They have not advanced past the group stages in the ODI format.
Sophie Devine
Devine stated, “It feels like the right time for me to start stepping away,” in reference to her choice. “I consider myself extremely lucky to have had NZC’s help in resolving the issue. So that I can continue to support the White Ferns. Before I leave, I want everyone to know that I’m committed and focused on giving this group my all. I’m eager to contribute over the next six to nine months. Am quite pleased about the direction this young group is taking.”
According to Liz Green, the Head of Women’s High Performance at NZC. Devine’s choice to sign a casual deal will allow another athlete to sign a full contract. As the 17-member core contracts list will be revealed tomorrow.
Green stated that Sophie has served the White Ferns for almost 20 years, and NZC is completely in support of her efforts to find greater balance at this point in her career.
We are happy that we were able to come to a deal that allows her to continue playing for the White Ferns on an as-needed basis while providing room for another player to sign a full contract.
