Credit: ICC
New Zealand skipper Sophie Devine won’t participate in the ODI and T20I series against Sri Lanka as she is looking to focus on her well-being. Earlier, she also left the Women’s Super Smash 2024/25 midway. The 35-year-old has also not shown up in the ongoing Women’s Premier League 2025 season for the same reason. In Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s (RCB) maiden title victory in 2024, the New Zealand veteran contributed 136 runs and six wickets in 10 matches.
Devine’s decision received support from New Zealand Cricket (NZC) as they were firmly behind their key player’s crucial decision. "We are fully supportive of Sophie's decision to not take part in the upcoming series. Player well-being is our highest priority and it's important Sophie feels fit and well before returning to professional cricket," said Liz Green, New Zealand Cricket's Head of Women's High Performance.
After New Zealand’s notable T20 World Cup victory in October 2024, Devine was part of the Kiwi side’s ODI series against India. She also served Perth Scorchers in the 2024-25 edition of the WBBL. Her last appearance was in Super Smash where she looked efficient for Wellington against Canterburry, grabbing a fifer on January 24 before her decision to take a break from the sport.
New Zealand set to face Sri Lanka and Australia challenge at home
New Zealand will be clashing with Sri Lanka in the three-match ODI and as many as T20I-match series. The series will be played from March 4 to March 18, 2025. NZC will announce the squad this month. After hosting Sri Lanka, they will also lock horns with their neighbours Australia for a three-match T20I series to be played from March 21 to March 26.
Devine’s leadership role played a vital role in helping New Zealand claim their first Women's T20 World Cup title with their victory in the tournament last year in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). In the marquee competition, she scored 114 runs in six matches at a strike rate of 107.54 and an average of 28.50.
