Table of Contents
New Zealand’s cricketing landscape is set for a significant change as Sophie Devine, one of the most influential figures in women’s cricket, has announced her decision to retire from One Day Internationals (ODIs) following the 2025 ICC Women’s World Cup. The 35-year-old, who has been a cornerstone of the White Ferns for nearly two decades, will transition to a casual playing agreement for the 2025-26 season, allowing her to remain involved with the team on a flexible basis.
Sophie Devine’s journey from No. 11 to White Ferns legend
Devine’s journey in international cricket is a testament to perseverance and evolution. Starting her ODI career in 2006 as a tailender, she steadily climbed the ranks to become one of New Zealand’s most formidable batters and all-rounders. Over 152 ODI appearances—the second most for a New Zealand woman after Suzie Bates—Devine has scored 3,990 runs, including eight centuries and 16 fifties, ranking her fourth on the nation’s all-time ODI run-scorers list. With the ball, she has claimed 107 wickets, making her the second-highest wicket-taker for New Zealand women in ODIs, trailing only Lea Tahuhu.
Her leadership qualities came to the fore when she was named permanent captain in 2020, guiding the White Ferns through a period of transition and culminating in a historic ICC Women’s T20 World Cup triumph last year. Devine’s influence extended beyond individual statistics, as she inspired a new generation of cricketers with her commitment, adaptability, and resilience.
“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. 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,” Devine said as quoted by cricbuzz.
A new era beckons in WODIs for New Zealand
Devine’s decision to step away from ODIs comes at a pivotal time for New Zealand cricket. While the White Ferns have struggled to progress beyond the group stages in recent ODI World Cups, her leadership has been instrumental in nurturing a young, dynamic squad. As she prepares for her final ODI campaign at the World Cup, Devine remains focused on giving her all to the team, expressing excitement about the direction the group is heading.
Her move to a casual playing agreement opens up opportunities for emerging talent, with New Zealand Cricket set to announce a refreshed list of centrally contracted players. Liz Green, NZC’s Head of Women’s High Performance, praised Devine’s nearly 20 years of service and emphasized the importance of supporting her quest for balance at this stage of her career.
“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.
The identity of Devine’s successor as ODI captain will be revealed prior to the New Zealand home summer, marking the dawn of a new chapter for the White Ferns.
