New Zealand Captain Sophie Devine Retires From ODIs After World Cup

Sophie Devine, captain of New Zealand women's cricket team and a star player for Royal Challengers Bengaluru, has announced she will retire from One Day Internationals (ODIs) after the 2025 Women's Cricket World Cup in India and Sri Lanka but will continue playing T20 internationals under a casual playing agreement with New Zealand Cricket. Devine, who has had a distinguished 19-year career beginning in 2006, is New Zealand's second-most capped ODI player and stands among the top run-scorers and wicket-takers for her country, with eight ODI centuries and over 100 wickets. She has led New Zealand to significant achievements including a bronze medal at the 2022 Commonwealth Games and the 2023 T20 World Cup title. Despite stepping away from the longer format, Devine remains committed to supporting and playing with the team during the World Cup and beyond, as New Zealand Cricket supports her transition to a more flexible role. The board will appoint a new ODI captain ahead of New Zealand’s home summer, while Devine's leadership and legacy as an all-rounder and mentor continue to be highly praised. New Zealand will begin their World Cup campaign against defending champions Australia on October 1, 2025.