In a significant development for New Zealand cricket, Sophie Devine, the long-standing captain of the WHITE FERNS, has announced her decision to step down as the T20 captain at the conclusion of the upcoming ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in October. The 34-year-old, who has been a central figure in New Zealand women’s cricket for nearly two decades, will continue to lead the team in One Day Internationals (ODIs) while stepping back from the leadership role in T20s to manage her workload better.
A Remarkable Leadership Journey
Devine, who first donned the New Zealand jersey in 2006, has been an influential leader for the WHITE FERNS, guiding them through 56 T20 Internationals (T20Is) with a record of 25 wins, 28 losses, and one tie. After initially captaining the side in a few games between 2014 and 2015, she took on the permanent role in both T20 and ODI formats in 2020, succeeding Amy Satterthwaite. Under her captaincy, the WHITE FERNS have seen significant developments, including the integration of several young talents into the squad.
Reflecting on her tenure, Devine expressed pride in having had the opportunity to lead her country in both formats. However, she cited the need to find a more balanced workload as the primary reason for her decision to step down as the T20 captain.
“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,” said Devine, who is currently recovering from a foot injury.
Continued Commitment to ODI Leadership
Despite stepping down from the T20 captaincy, Devine has reiterated her commitment to leading the WHITE FERNS in ODIs, emphasizing her desire to continue contributing to the team in both formats. “I’m not ready to give up ODI captaincy just yet,” she stated. “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.”
This approach reflects Devine’s forward-thinking leadership style, as she looks to ensure a smooth transition for the next generation of leaders within the team.
Support from the WHITE FERNS Camp
The decision has been met with full support from the WHITE FERNS camp. Head coach Ben Sawyer praised Devine for her fearless leadership and her invaluable contribution to the team, both on and off the field. “Soph is the epitome of a fearless leader, and we’re really grateful for the leadership she brings to this group,” said Sawyer. “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.”
NZC CEO Scott Weenink also expressed his appreciation for Devine’s continued involvement with the team, particularly in the ODI format. “We’re grateful to have a player of Sophie’s calibre in the WHITE FERNS, and I’m delighted that she is still committed to captaining the ODI team,” Weenink said.
Looking Ahead: T20 World Cup and Beyond
The WHITE FERNS are now focused on the upcoming ICC Women’s T20 World Cup, where Devine will lead the team for the last time in the T20 format. The 15-player squad for the tournament will be announced on September 10, with the team set to depart for Australia on September 16 for a preparatory series of three T20Is against the hosts in Mackay and Brisbane.
Following the World Cup, the WHITE FERNS will host Sri Lanka in a T20 series at home in March, marking the beginning of a new era for the team with a new T20 captain. The decision on who will succeed Devine as the T20 captain will be made in due course, as New Zealand Cricket carefully considers the next leader who will carry forward the legacy of excellence established under Devine’s leadership.