Indore, Oct 7 (NationPress) New Zealand captain Sophie Devine was visibly moved when her teammates surprised her with special gifts to honor her remarkable achievement of 300 international matches. Devine reached this milestone during the White Ferns' clash against South Africa on Monday at the Holkar Stadium.

Despite the New Zealand team's loss to the Proteas, there were two significant milestones to acknowledge, as both Devine and her teammate, Suzie Bates, celebrated their respective 300th and 350th international games.

Following the match, the ICC released a heartfelt video showcasing the team’s celebration of Devine’s achievement, with Lea Tahuhu presenting her with a ‘wee pounamu’, a symbol of strength, connection, protection, and identity.

While giving her the gift, the right-arm medium-fast bowler expressed, "Sophie, I have a wee pounamu to give you for your accomplishment of 300 international matches. It embodies the strength, connection, protection, and identity of our nation. You embody these qualities and carry immense mana (prestige) and wairua (soul) while representing us worldwide.”

Jess Kerr, a veteran bowler on the team, presented Devine with a personalized bat featuring her incredible achievements and milestones illustrated on it.

“Soph, this bat represents not just the statistics or titles you've earned playing for New Zealand, but also who you are as a person, teammate, and friend that we all cherish,” Kerr remarked while gifting the bat on behalf of the team.

The 36-year-old captain, possibly participating in her final ODI World Cup, became emotional upon receiving the gifts. During her speech, Devine broke into tears and made a heartfelt mention of Suzie Bates, acknowledging that she wouldn't have reached this journey without her.

“It's surreal to think I've spent over half my life in this team. Some might say I've matured; others might disagree. But reflecting on starting as a 17-year-old and now being 36, still with the same humor as a teenage boy, it’s been an extraordinary journey. The people, experiences, and opportunities this game has provided me are invaluable. Having all of you here today means so much to me,” Devine expressed, visibly touched.

“To you, Suze (Suzie Bates), I couldn’t imagine sharing this journey with anyone else. When I finish playing, I will take immense pride in this team and each one of you, so thank you all; it truly means a lot,” Devine concluded.

After facing defeats in their opening two matches of the tournament, New Zealand aims to revive their campaign against Bangladesh this Friday at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati.

vi/bc