Following England’s victory over New Zealand in the 2025 Women’s World Cup league clash in Visakhapatnam, both teams lined up to give a guard of honor to celebrate Sophie Devine’s illustrious ODI career, which is now coming to an end.
Ahead of the ICC exhibition, Devine announced that this campaign would be her last in ODI cricket, bringing to a close a stellar career that spanned almost two decades. Devine, who made her debut against Australia in 2006, leaves behind a remarkable legacy, amassing over 4,000 runs, including 18 fifties and nine centuries.
ENG-W vs NZ-W, Women’s World Cup 2025 Highlighting | Scorecard
She was previously part of the New Zealand team that won the T20 World Cup in the United Arab Emirates and ended a legendary T20I captain’s career by handing the White Ferns their first major T20 title. This triumph cemented her place as one of the game’s most successful and influential leaders.
While New Zealand’s ODI World Cup campaign hasn’t gone as hoped Devine remained a shining light for the White Ferns, finishing as their top scorer in the tournament with 289 runs. She also picked up the prized wicket of veteran England captain Heather Knight in today’s match, adding another memorable moment to the farewell ODI.
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In a touching gesture, the England team presented Devine with a special jersey to show their respect. Devine made sure to personally thank England captain Nat Sciver-Brunt and head coach Charlotte Edwards for the thoughtful tribute. Nat Sciver-Brunt (L) and Sophie Devine (R) – Reuters photo
Reflecting on her latest performance, Devine admitted it wasn’t as high as she had hoped. “Disappointing. Although I didn’t want to make it about myself, I wanted to do my best and today’s performance was not like that. Credit to England, they stuck with it and did it with the bat,” she said.
Still, the 37-year-old focused on the positives. “I actually didn’t cry as much as I thought I would. It helped that I announced it earlier.” process my emotions. Today was about enjoying it and getting back to the roots of why I started 19 years ago. To end up bowling Suzie Bates at the other end was really special.”
Devine also praised the growth of women’s cricket. “Unbelievable to see how far the game has come – it’s almost unrecognisable. The sport teaches you a lot. You’re judged professionally, but it’s so much bigger than that. Playing alongside your colleagues is what makes it really worthwhile.”
Although this marks the end of her ODI journey, Devine remains involved in the game. “I’m not quite done yet, so I’ll be around, probably annoying people on the property,” she joked. There will be a celebration in the dressing room tonight – a fitting farewell to one of women’s cricket’s greatest servants.
– The end
Issued by:
Amar Panicker
Published on:
October 26, 2025
