Sophie Dismisses Retirement Rumors

Sophie Devine has clarified that she is not considering retirement, despite stepping down as New Zealand’s T20I captain after the 2024 Women’s T20 World Cup. Devine, who has been a part of all nine editions of the tournament, remains a key player for New Zealand. While she will relinquish her T20I captaincy, she will continue leading the ODI team.

Speaking at a pre-match press conference, Devine expressed her desire to win the World Cup, reflecting on her career and the opportunities she’s had. "I’d love to lift the trophy with this bunch of players. It's been a little weird—I'm not retiring, just stepping down as T20 captain—but it has made me reflect on my career," she said.

Devine has led New Zealand’s white-ball teams since 2020, succeeding Amy Satterthwaite. She guided the team through the 2023 Women's T20 World Cup and is confident about the future with young players stepping up. "Looking back to 2009, it shows my age, but I’m incredibly proud of the growth of women’s cricket. Right now, my focus is on this tournament," Devine added.

New Zealand will face India in their first match of the 2024 Women’s T20 World Cup on October 4 at Sharjah Cricket Stadium. While the White Ferns aim to end their semi-final drought, which dates back to 2016, India, led by Harmanpreet Kaur, will also be eager to make a strong start in their quest for a maiden ICC title.