‘It sucks’ – Devine emotional after New Zealand’s World Cup exit and impending ODI retirement
New Zealand captain Sophie Devine reflects on her team’s World Cup exit after losing to India and hopes to end her ODI career on a high against England.
New Zealand captain Sophie Devine was visibly emotional after her team’s defeat to India at the DY Patil Stadium, which ended their hopes of reaching the Women’s ODI World Cup semi-finals. The loss also marked the beginning of the end for Devine’s illustrious career, as she prepares to retire from the 50-over format after New Zealand’s final league game against England on Sunday.
Reflecting on her team’s campaign, Devine admitted the disappointment was hard to process but expressed immense pride in the younger players coming through. “I’m incredibly proud of where this team’s going,” she said. “When you think about the likes of Izzy Gaze, Brooke Halliday, Melie Kerr, and Eden Carson, the way they’re starting to grow into themselves makes it easier when I do step away after the next game.”
The White Ferns’ journey came to a halt after a challenging match against India. Opting to bowl first, New Zealand restricted the hosts early but couldn’t contain the middle overs as Smriti Mandhana and Pratika Rawal powered India past 300. Chasing a revised target of 325 in 44 overs, the Kiwis never quite found momentum despite fighting knocks from Halliday and Gaze.
Sophie Devine reflects on New Zealand’s World Cup exit and hopes to finish her ODI career on a high
“It’s frustrating and gutting to lose any game of cricket, but especially when you still had a chance of making it to the semi-finals,” Devine said. “We did a lot right early, but a big partnership put us under pressure. That’s cricket.”
Devine also touched on the mental side of leadership, admitting that dealing with heartbreak is the hardest part of sport. “You can work harder than anyone, do all the right things, but it doesn’t guarantee results,” she said, her voice cracking with emotion.
Looking ahead, Devine praised India’s rise and the success of the Women’s Premier League (WPL), calling it a game-changer. “I think India can be at the forefront of where women’s cricket can go,” she said. As she prepares for her ODI farewell, Devine hopes her team can finish on a high. “We’ll dust ourselves off and go hard against England. Hopefully, we can leave with our heads held high.”
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