Sophie Devine’s decorated ODI career ended as New Zealand bowed out of the World Cup, but the legacy she leaves behind is monumental.
Standing on the field for one last anthem, Devine fought back tears as she reflected on a career spanning 159 ODIs, more than 4,000 runs, and over 100 wickets — a milestone achieved by only two other players worldwide. Her final outing ended in an eight-wicket defeat to England, but the result did nothing to diminish her remarkable contributions to New Zealand and women’s cricket globally.
Beyond the numbers, Devine’s influence stretched off the field. She was a vocal advocate for mental health and the management of Type 1 Diabetes while maintaining elite performance levels. Her leadership, professionalism, and advocacy inspired teammates and younger players, setting a standard for generations to follow. At the toss, she was honoured with a pounamu green-stone necklace, symbolising her place in Aotearoa’s cricketing history.
With Devine stepping away from ODIs, New Zealand faces life without one of its pillars. Amelia Kerr emerges as the natural successor to guide the White Ferns forward, bridging experience with youth, while players like Brooke Halliday and Georgia Plimmer hint at the growing depth in the squad. Yet, Devine’s imprint on the team’s culture and success will remain unmatched.
As the squads formed a guard of honour and Devine left the field, one truth was clear: cricket owes Sophie Devine a debt — for her records, her leadership, and her unwavering spirit. Her ODI chapter may have closed, but her impact on the sport is eternal.
