New Zealand skipper Sophie Devine has confirmed her intention to step down as captain of the Women’s T20I team after the forthcoming ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in the UAE. The tournament, which promises thrilling cricketing action, is slated to begin on October 3. The White Ferns, led by Devine for the last time in T20I format, will be competing in Group A alongside formidable teams such as India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and reigning champions Australia.
Devine’s decision to relinquish the T20I captaincy stems from her desire to better manage her workload. Over the years, she has led New Zealand in 56 T20 Internationals, carving a legacy marked by fearless leadership and commendable performance both on and off the field. However, the star cricketer aims to focus more on her playing role and to cultivate emerging leaders within the team post-World Cup.
“I’m very proud to have had the privilege to captain the White Ferns in both formats,” said Devine in a recent statement. “With captaincy comes an additional workload that, while I’ve enjoyed taking on, can also be challenging at times. Stepping away from the T20 captaincy will take a bit off my plate so I can focus more of my energy on my playing role and nurturing the future leaders.”
Though she is stepping down from the T20I captaincy, Devine has clarified she will continue to captain the ODI side with eyes set on the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup, scheduled to be hosted by India next year. “I’m not ready to give up ODI captaincy just yet. But I won’t be around forever, so I think stepping away from captaining one format at a time gives the next leaders time to find their feet,” she added.
The 34-year-old is currently nursing a foot injury but is optimistic about making her return in the upcoming three-match T20I series against Australia. New Zealand selectors are expected to name their squad for the World Cup on September 10, and Devine’s recovery will be a pivotal factor for the team.
Echoing her sentiments, the head coach of the White Ferns, Ben Sawyer, lauded Devine’s outstanding contributions as a captain. Sawyer emphasized that although she will step down from the T20I captaincy, her influence and experience will continue to be invaluable for the team.
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“Soph is the epitome of a fearless leader and we’re really grateful for the leadership she brings to this group on and off the field,” said Sawyer. “She’s one of the most experienced White Ferns ever and her leadership and knowledge of the game have been so valuable as we have introduced several young players into the team over the past two years. I know the decision wasn’t easy for Soph, but I fully support it and know that she’s still going to be a prominent leader in the group.”
Devine’s tenure as captain is characterized by her formidable strategic acumen and relentless determination. She has nurtured numerous emerging talents, ensuring a seamless blend of youthful exuberance and seasoned experience in the squad. Under her leadership, New Zealand has witnessed significant milestones, including several memorable victories and individual accomplishments.
The upcoming ICC Women’s T20 World Cup will thus serve as a defining moment in Sophie Devine’s illustrious career. Fans and cricketers alike will be keenly watching as she leads the White Ferns for the final time in this format. With her plans articulated and her eyes on the future, both she and the team look forward to the forthcoming challenges and opportunities.
As the world gears up for this cricketing extravaganza in the UAE, Devine’s announcement has added an emotional aspect to the tournament. It remains to be seen how the White Ferns will fare against some of the strongest teams in world cricket, but one thing is certain: Sophie Devine’s legacy will inspire New Zealand cricket for many years to come.
In conclusion, Devine’s decision marks the end of an era but also signals the beginning of a new chapter. Continuing as the ODI captain, she will undoubtedly keep steering her team towards excellence. The cricketing world will surely celebrate her unparalleled contributions as a captain, a player, and a mentor. Her leadership will be remembered as a pivotal chapter in the annals of New Zealand cricket.
