Wellington/New Delhi, June 17 (H.S.): New Zealand women’s cricket team captain Sophie Devine has announced that she will retire from ODI cricket after the 50-over Women’s World Cup taking place in India and Sri Lanka this year. However, she will remain available for T20 international matches under a casual (selected) contract with New Zealand Cricket (NZC). The 35-year-old Devine made this announcement just a day before the release of New Zealand’s 17-member contracted women’s players list. As she will no longer be part of the central contract, a new ODI captain will be appointed after the World Cup.

Devine made her ODI debut in 2006 at the age of 17 and has excelled as a leading all-rounder for New Zealand for nearly 19 years. She ranks second on the list of players with the most ODIs for New Zealand and fourth on the list of highest run-scorers in ODIs. However, it is expected that during the World Cup, she will surpass the 4,000-run mark, moving ahead of Debbie Hockley to third place. She has scored 8 ODI centuries, which is the second-highest for New Zealand women after Suzie Bates.

Additionally, she is one of the two New Zealand women players who have taken over 100 wickets, ranking second on this list as well after Lea Tahuhu. In a statement, Devine said, I believe this is the right time to slowly step back. I feel fortunate to have the support of NZC. This will also give me the opportunity to stay connected with the team. She further stated, It is essential for me that everyone knows I am completely dedicated and committed to giving my best for this team until the World Cup. I am excited about the future of this young team and am ready to play my role in the coming 6–9 months.

NZC’s women’s high-performance head Liz Green said, Sophie has served the White Ferns for nearly two decades. We fully support her decision, and this arrangement is positive for both her and the team. NZC Chief Executive Scott Weinert said, Sophie Devine has been an extraordinary leader and one of the great all-rounders in the game. Her legacy and dedication to the development of young players are inspiring.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar