New Zealand captain Sophie Devine will sit out of the upcoming ODI and T20I series against Sri Lanka as she continues to focus on her well-being. Devine had previously withdrawn from the Women’s Super Smash midway and opted out of the WPL after receiving professional advice.
“We fully support Sophie’s decision to step away from the upcoming series,” said Liz Green, New Zealand Cricket’s Head of Women’s High Performance. “Player well-being is our top priority, and it’s important that Sophie feels fit and ready before returning to professional cricket.”
Sophie Devine to Step Down as T20I Captain of New Zealand’s White Ferns
Since leading New Zealand to their T20 World Cup victory in October 2024, the 35-year-old all-rounder has played in the ODIs against India, featured in the WBBL for Perth Scorchers, and participated in the ODI series against Australia in December. Her most recent appearance came in the Super Smash, where she starred with 5 for 13 against Canterbury on January 24. Wellington went on to win the domestic T20 title, with Amelia Kerr playing a key role.
New Zealand will host Sri Lanka for three ODIs from March 4, followed by three T20Is starting March 14. A full squad announcement is expected later this month. After the Sri Lanka series, the White Ferns are set to face Australia in three T20Is from March 21, marking their first T20I assignment since their historic T20 World Cup triumph under Devine’s captaincy.
