New Zealand Legend Set To Retire From ODIs, Will Continue Playing T20Is 'Casually'

One of New Zealand’s most celebrated cricketers, Sophie Devine, has announced her decision to retire from ODIs following the 2025 Women’s World Cup in India and Sri Lanka. The veteran all-rounder, who has been the face of the White Ferns for nearly two decades, will, however, remain available for T20I selection under a casual playing agreement.

The announcement comes on the eve of NZC releasing their centrally contracted players list for the 2025-26 season - a list Devine will no longer be part of. The 35-year-old will continue to lead the White Ferns in the World Cup, after which a new captain will be appointed for ODIs ahead of the home season.

Devine made her ODI debut in 2006 as a teenager and has since become one of the most celebrated players all over the world. She is currently New Zealand’s second-most capped player in the format after Suzie Bates, and her eight ODI centuries place her second only to Bates in that category.

She is also one of only two New Zealand women to claim over 100 ODI wickets, sitting just behind Lea Tahuhu on the all-time wicket-takers list. "It feels like the right time for me to start stepping away," Devine said in a statement released by NZC. 

"I feel very fortunate to have NZC's support in finding a solution that means I can still give to the White Ferns.

"It's important that everyone knows I'm focused and dedicated to giving this group everything I can before I step away. I'm really excited by where this young group's going and I'm looking forward to playing my part in the next six to nine months."

NZC’s head of women’s high performance, Liz Green, expressed full backing for Devine’s decision. "Sophie's given nearly 20 years of service to the White Ferns and NZC is fully supportive of her quest to find more balance at this stage in her career," Green said. 

"We're pleased to be able to reach an agreement that means she can continue to be involved with the White Ferns on a case-by-case basis, whilst opening up the opportunity for another player to be contracted in full."

Scott Weenink, NZC’s chief executive, hailed Devine’s impact as a leader and her value to the team’s development. 

“Sophie has been an extraordinary leader and ambassador for the White Ferns. Supporting her move to a casual playing agreement will allow her to continue contributing to the White Ferns environment. Her legacy as one of the game's greatest all-rounders and her commitment to nurturing the next generation makes this a positive step for both her and the White Ferns.”