Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Sep 30: New Zealand captain Sophie Devine has announced that the 2025 ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup in India and Sri Lanka will mark the end of her one-day international (ODI) career, bringing to a close a remarkable journey that has spanned nearly two decades.

The 36-year-old all-rounder, widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in women’s cricket, said she is entering the tournament determined to enjoy every moment of her final ODI appearance. “I feel in a really good space to go out and enjoy every moment of my last World Cup,” Devine told ICC Media. “I’m proud to be in a position where I feel confident in my abilities and proud to lead this team with passion.”

Devine, who debuted for New Zealand as a 17-year-old, reflected on her journey with deep emotion and gratitude. “It’s crazy to think nearly 20 years have passed. I’ve grown not just as a player — playing different roles in this team — but more importantly, I’ve grown as a person. My love for the White Ferns and New Zealand Cricket has never wavered.”

A key highlight of her legacy, Devine said, has been the opportunity to mentor younger players and contribute to the growth of women’s cricket. “It’s so special to help others improve. No matter what team I’m playing for, I want to make myself and my teammates better. The progress in the women’s game, especially in the past few years, shows the potential is limitless. Being part of that growth has been incredibly rewarding.”

Devine is hopeful that the White Ferns can replicate the high of their T20 World Cup win in 2024, and finish her ODI career on a high. “Winning that World Cup taught us resilience. We’d had a rough patch before the tournament, but we believed in our processes. Now, going into the ODI World Cup, we’re starting fresh — but we know we can beat anyone.”

While she acknowledged the increased competitiveness of modern women’s cricket, Devine said the White Ferns are comfortable flying under the radar. “We’re a team that’s happy being underestimated. What matters most is the belief within our dressing room. And the beauty of this World Cup is that, unlike earlier in my career, any team can win now. It’s an exciting time.”

As she prepares to step away from the 50-over format, Devine promised to remain a committed supporter of the game. “When my time is up, I’ll be the biggest fan, cheering the team and watching how the game continues to evolve.”

New Zealand, who last won the Women’s ODI World Cup in 2000, will begin their 2025 campaign against defending champions Australia in Indore on Day 2 of the tournament.

New Zealand Squad for the 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup:

Sophie Devine (captain), Suzie Bates, Eden Carson, Flora Devonshire, Izzy Gaze, Maddy Green, Brooke Halliday, Bree Illing, Polly Inglis, Bella James, Melie Kerr, Jess Kerr, Rosemary Mair, Georgia Plimmer, Lea Tahuhu.