HANGING THE BOOTS
Sophie Devine has stroked 8 centuries and 16 fifties in ODIs © Getty
New Zealand stalwart Sophie Devine will be quitting the ODI format after the World Cup this year. As a result, she will be opting for a casual playing agreement for the 2025-26 season, New Zealand Cricket confirmed on Tuesday (June 17).
The 35-year-old has had an impressive career for New Zealand in both ODIs and T20Is. In 50-over cricket, after starting as a No. 11, she has worked her way up to become one of the most important batters in the side over the course of her 152 appearances for the national team, the second most after Suzie Bates. She has hit eight centuries (second-most after Bates), and 16 fifties. Apart from scoring 3990 runs (fourth highest), Devine has also picked up 107 wickets (second highest after Lea Tahuhu).
The all-rounder became New Zealand’s permanent captain in 2020 and under her leadership, they finally won the T20 World Cup last year. In the ODI format, they have failed to make it past the group stages in the last two editions of the tournament.
“It feels like the right time for me to start stepping away,” Devine said on her decision. “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.”
Liz Green, NZC Head of Women’s High Performance, said that Devine’s decision to opt for a casual playing agreement will open the doors for another player to be fully contracted with the 17-member central contracts list set to be announced tomorrow.
“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. “We’re pleased to be able to reach an agreement that means she can continue to be involved with the White Ferns on a case-by-case basis, whilst opening up the opportunity for another player to be contracted in full.”
The T20 champions will begin their ODI World Cup campaign on October 1 against Australia in Indore. Devine’s successor post the tournament will be made prior to the commencement of the New Zealand home summer.
© Cricbuzz
