After the 2025 Women’s World Cup in India and Sri Lanka later this year, Sophie Devine, the iconic captain of New Zealand, has declared her intention to retire from ODIs. Under a casual playing arrangement, the seasoned all-rounder will continue to be available for T20Is even though she has chosen to retire from the 50-over format.
Sophie Devine, who is now regarded as one of New Zealand’s all-time greats, made her ODI debut in 2006 at the age of 17. She is the second-most capped player for New Zealand, after Suzie Bates, with 152 ODI appearances. Devine ranks second among her countrywomen in both categories with 3990 runs, including eight hundreds, and 107 wickets.
“I think the moment is perfect for me to start taking a backseat. I am extremely grateful for NZC’s assistance in resolving this issue so that I can continue to provide for the White Ferns. Before I leave, I want everyone to know that I’m committed and focused on giving this group my all. Regarding her choice, Devine stated, “I’m thrilled with the direction this young group is taking and I’m looking forward to playing my part in the next six to nine months.”
🗣️”It’s a decision that has come with considerable thought and was always going to be really hard to do.” @sophdevine77 on her decision to retire from ODI cricket after the @cricketworldcup🏆 pic.twitter.com/QfxcpSdKcM
— WHITE FERNS (@WHITE_FERNS) June 16, 2025
Sophie Devine has served the White Ferns for almost 20 years: Liz Green
Sophie Devine, who has been the team’s leader since 2020, was crucial in leading a youthful group. Last year, the White Ferns won their first-ever ICC Women’s T20 World Cup under her direction. She hasn’t been able to get the White Ferns past the group stage in ODIs, though, in the last two World Cups. Her decision has been endorsed by New Zealand Cricket, which noted her significant contributions to the game and the nation.
“Sophie Devine has served the White Ferns for almost 20 years, and NZC is completely in support of her efforts to find greater balance at this point in her career. We’re happy to have come to a consensus that allows her to continue playing for the White Ferns on an as-needed basis while creating room for another player to sign a full contract,” said Liz Green, Head of Women’s High Performance at NZC.
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