Revitalized Devine aims for back-to-back World Cup triumphs

Revitalized Devine Sets Sights on World Cup Double

Sophie Devine has revealed that she considered retiring from international cricket during her recent break but was ultimately drawn back by the prospect of competing in this year's ODI World Cup.

Devine stepped away from the game in early 2025 to focus on her well-being, opting out of WPL 2025 despite being retained by Royal Challengers Bengaluru and missing New Zealand's home series against Sri Lanka.

Retirement Was a Real Possibility

When asked if she had seriously contemplated walking away from international cricket, Devine was candid in her response.

"To be completely honest? Yes, certainly," she admitted. "I had to process a few things—I'm not getting any younger, so naturally, those thoughts crossed my mind. But now, I’m just excited to be back and focusing on each day with the White Ferns."

Motivation to Return: The World Cup and Franchise Cricket

Devine is set to return to action in New Zealand’s T20I series against Australia, starting in Auckland on Friday. She was recently picked by Southern Brave for £36,000 (NZD 80,000) in the Women’s Hundred draft. However, the biggest driving force behind her return is New Zealand’s ambition to follow up their T20 World Cup triumph with a 50-over title in India later this year.

"I’ve been playing cricket for a long time, and naturally, I’ve thought about what comes next when I eventually retire," Devine said. "Franchise opportunities are exciting, but my priority is still representing the White Ferns. We have a huge World Cup ahead, and if everything goes well, I hope to be there."

"The World Cup was the biggest factor. I still feel like I have a little more to give in the black jersey. Watching the team over the past few weeks reignited my passion—I still have that itch to compete."

Managing Workload and Mental Health

Devine hasn’t played a competitive match since January 24, when she took 5 for 13 for Wellington in the Women's Super Smash. Her last international appearance was in December 2024 against Australia, following a demanding year that included tours of England and India, as well as leading New Zealand to their T20 World Cup victory in Dubai.

"The last 12 to 18 months have been massive—not just for me, but for the White Ferns as well. Winning the World Cup and the packed schedule took more of a toll on me than I realized," she explained. "New Zealand Cricket, along with my family and friends, supported my decision to take a break, and I’m really grateful for that."

Devine, now 35, has taken mental-health breaks at various points in her career, including an extended one in 2021 and missing part of the 2023-24 Super Smash season.

She described her recent break as a form of "hibernation," withdrawing from the spotlight before gradually re-engaging by watching New Zealand’s recent matches against Sri Lanka.

Now feeling refreshed, Devine continues to advocate for mental health awareness in professional sport.

"My biggest advice is to speak up, talk to people," she said. "The support I’ve received—from professionals, teammates, and loved ones—has been invaluable. Everyone faces struggles in different ways, and whether you’re an athlete, a student, or anyone else, it’s important to seek support when you need it."

With her energy renewed, Devine now looks ahead to leading New Zealand’s charge toward ODI World Cup glory.

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