New Zealand captain Sophie Devine will miss the upcoming ODI and T20I series against Sri Lanka as she continues to prioritize her well-being. Devine had previously withdrawn from the Women’s Super Smash midway and opted out of the WPL following professional advice regarding her mental and physical health.
Liz Green, New Zealand Cricket’s Head of Women’s High Performance, expressed full support for Devine’s decision. She emphasized that player well-being remains a top priority and that Devine’s health comes first before any return to professional cricket.
Since leading New Zealand to their maiden T20 World Cup title in October 2024, Devine, 35, has had a packed schedule. She featured in the ODI series against India, played for Perth Scorchers in the WBBL, and participated in the ODI series against Australia in December. Her last appearance was in the Women’s Super Smash, where she delivered a remarkable performance, taking 5 for 13 against Canterbury on January 24. Wellington, her team, went on to claim the domestic T20 title, with Amelia Kerr shining with both bat and ball.
New Zealand’s series against Sri Lanka begins with three ODIs from March 4, followed by three T20Is starting March 14. New Zealand will announce the squad for these matches later this month. They will also face Australia in a three-match T20I series starting March 21, which will be their first T20I series since winning the World Cup under Devine’s leadership.
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