New Zealand skipper to remain on sidelines for home Sri Lanka series

Tuesday, 18 February 2025 03:06 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

New Zealand have confirmed Sophie Devine will not play in the upcoming white-ball series against Sri Lanka.

It has been revealed Devine will continue to prioritise her wellbeing.

The news comes after the White Ferns Captain opted to withdraw from the Dream11 Super Smash and 2025 Women’s Premier League last month, off the back of receiving professional advice.

“We are fully supportive of Sophie’s decision to not take part in the upcoming series,” Head of Women’s High Performance Liz Green said in a release from New Zealand Cricket (NZC). “Player wellbeing is our highest priority and it is important Sophie feels fit and well before returning to professional cricket.”

The White Ferns’ series with Sri Lanka starts on 4 March, featuring three ODIs and then two T20Is – all in New Zealand.

NZC will announce their squad for the white-ball series later this month. As Captain, Sophie Devine played a key role in helping the White Ferns win last year’s ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in the UAE in October. The all-rounder is on the cusp of a milestone, having amassed 3,990 runs in Women’s ODIs, averaging 31.66 with the bat in international 50-over cricket.