Sophie Devine to Retire from ODIs after World Cup

New Zealand captain Sophie Devine has announced that she will retire from ODI cricket after the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup later this year. The 35 year old will lead the White Ferns at the tournament, which begins on September 30 in India and Sri Lanka.

Devine said it felt like the right moment to step back after the World Cup. “It feels like the right time for me to start stepping away,” she said.

Devine has been a key figure in New Zealand cricket since making her international debut in 2006. She was named ODI captain in 2020.

During her time as skipper, she led New Zealand to a major title when they won the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in 2024, beating South Africa in the final.

In her ODI career so far, Devine has played 151 matches, scoring 3990 runs at an average of 31.67. This includes 8 centuries and 16 half-centuries. She has also taken 107 wickets with her right-arm medium pace, averaging 35.72.

Devine is confident about the future of New Zealand women’s cricket. “I’m really excited by where this young group’s going and I’m looking forward to playing my part in the next 6 to 9 months,” she shared.

While she will step away from ODIs, Devine will continue to play T20 cricket for New Zealand. Devine also plans to step down as T20 captain after the Women’s T20 World Cup in October.

Speaking about this decision, Devine said, “I think stepping away from captaining one format at a time gives the next leaders time to find their feet.”

However, she will not be part of the group of centrally contracted players next season but will remain available under a casual playing agreement.

Devine is seen as one of the best all-rounders in women’s cricket. She holds the record as the first cricketer, male or female, to score 6 consecutive 50s in T20 Internationals.

New Zealand will be aiming to win their second Women’s ODI World Cup title this year, with their last triumph coming in 2000. As Devine prepares for her final ODI series, Devine remains focused on leading New Zealand with pride and helping the next generation of players.