New Zealand women’s ODI captain Sophie Devine has announced she will retire from One Day Internationals after the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025, which will be hosted jointly by India and Sri Lanka. The experienced all-rounder confirmed that the conclusion of the tournament will mark the end of her glittering ODI career.
The ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 will begin on September 30 and end on November 2, giving Devine one last chance to lead the White Ferns in a global 50-over tournament. Devine has been a core part of the New Zealand women’s team since her debut in 2006 and has become one of the most respected figures in international women’s cricket.
Sophie Devine ODI Career Stats
- Matches: 143
- Runs: 3990
- Centuries: 8
- Wickets: 107
- Best Bowling: 4/36
- Career Span: 2006–2025
Devine to Step Away After Nearly Two Decades of ODI Excellence
Sophie Devine has accumulated 3990 runs in ODIs, including eight centuries out of her nine international hundreds. Known for her aggressive stroke play and ability to change games in minutes, Devine has been a consistent performer across formats. Her tally of 107 ODI wickets also highlights her value as a genuine all-rounder.
In announcing her decision, Devine said the World Cup presents the perfect moment to close her ODI chapter.
“It feels like the right time for me to start stepping away. I feel very fortunate to have New Zealand Cricket’s support in finding a solution that means I can still give to the White Ferns,” said Devine.
She emphasized her desire to give her all for the team before she retires. “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.”
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Leadership Continues: Sophie Devine Takes on New Role Post-ODIs
Following her retirement from ODIs, Devine will shift to a casual playing agreement for the 2025-26 season. This means she will not be one of New Zealand Cricket’s 17 centrally contracted players but will remain available for T20 Internationals and team involvement on a flexible basis.
New Zealand Cricket’s Head of Women’s High Performance, Liz Green, supported the move. “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 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.”
Devine’s new role could pave the way for emerging players to gain more opportunities while still allowing the team to benefit from her leadership and experience.
NZC and Teammates Praise Devine’s Legacy and Leadership
New Zealand Cricket Chief Executive Scott Weenink also praised Devine for her enormous contribution to the White Ferns. “Sophie has been an extraordinary leader and ambassador for the White Ferns. Supporting her move to a casual playing agreement will allow her to continue contributing to the White Ferns environment. Her legacy as one of the game’s greatest allrounders and her commitment to nurturing the next generation makes this a positive step for both her and the White Ferns,” he stated.
Sophie Devine will remain captain of the ODI side throughout the Women’s World Cup, and a new captain is expected to be announced by NZC ahead of New Zealand’s home season later in 2025. Her influence on and off the field will be sorely missed in the ODI setup, though she is expected to continue mentoring younger players.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1.When will Sophie Devine retire from ODI cricket?
She will retire after the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 concludes.
Will Sophie Devine continue playing T20Is for New Zealand?
Yes, she will remain available for T20I selection under a casual playing agreement.
Who will replace Sophie Devine as New Zealand ODI captain?
A new captain will be announced by New Zealand Cricket ahead of the 2025-26 home summer.