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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 Devine had previously withdrawn from the Women’s Super Smash midway through the tournament and also opted out of the Women’s Premier League (WPL), citing professional advice on the importance of her health.
Liz Green, New Zealand Cricket’s Head of Women’s High Performance, expressed full support for Devine’s decision. “Player well-being is our highest priority, and it’s essential that Sophie feels fit and well before returning to professional cricket,” Green said in a statement on Monday.
Since leading New Zealand to a T20 World Cup victory in October 2024, the 35-year-old Devine had participated in the ODI series against India, played for Perth Scorchers in the WBBL, and featured in the ODI series against Australia in December. Her most recent appearance was in the Super Smash, where she took impressive figures of 5 for 13 against Canterbury on January 24. Devine’s Wellington team went on to win the domestic T20 title, with Amelia Kerr putting in an outstanding performance with both bat and ball.
New Zealand is scheduled to play three ODIs against Sri Lanka, beginning March 4 at home, followed by three T20Is starting March 14. A full squad will be announced later this month. Additionally, New Zealand is set to face Australia in a three-match T20I series starting March 21. These will be New Zealand’s first T20I matches since their T20 World Cup victory, where Devine captained the team to their maiden title.
Disclaimer: This is an AI-generated live blog and has not been edited by Localtak staff.
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