New Delhi, Sep 30 (NationPress) New Zealand captain Sophie Devine has expressed her determination to cherish every moment of the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025, marking her last chance to compete in one-day internationals.

The accomplished 36-year-old all-rounder announced her retirement from ODIs post the tournament in India and Sri Lanka, concluding a remarkable international career spanning nearly two decades.

“I am in a truly positive mindset to embrace every moment of my final World Cup,” Devine shared with ICC Media. “I take great pride in feeling comfortable and confident in my skills while leading this team. My passion for the White Ferns and New Zealand Cricket remains unwavering since I was 17, and if anything, it has only intensified over the years.”

Looking back on her extensive career, Devine remarked: “It’s incredible to realize that almost 20 years have flown by, and to reflect on my personal growth. My evolution as a player is evident—I’ve taken on numerous roles within the White Ferns—but more significantly, I’ve developed as an individual.”

She noted that mentoring younger players has been one of the most fulfilling aspects of her time in the sport. “We strive for collective improvement, supporting one another regardless of the team I play for. Observing the rapid advancements in women’s cricket over the past few years, the potential for the game is boundless. Contributing to this growth is what makes the women’s cricket scene so extraordinary.

“Sharing that enthusiasm with emerging talents is an incredibly rewarding experience. When my journey ends, I plan to be the game’s biggest supporter, watching its ongoing evolution.”

Devine is optimistic that the White Ferns can echo their ICC Women’s T20 World Cup victory in 2024 and provide her with a fairy-tale farewell in the 50-over format. “Our previous success has instilled confidence in us, yet we recognize that this is a new tournament and everyone starts at square one. It was well documented that our lead-up results to the T20 World Cup weren’t stellar, but the strong belief within the group reassured us that we were on the right path. The triumph taught us resilience and affirmed that we can challenge any team globally.

“As usual, us Kiwis prefer to stay under the radar. The opinions of those in the room matter most to us. The exciting aspect of this World Cup, compared to the beginning of my career, is that any team could potentially win. It’s a thrilling time to be involved.”

New Zealand, who clinched their sole ODI World Cup in 2000, will kick off their campaign against defending champions Australia in Indore on Day 2 of the tournament.

New Zealand squad: Sophie Devine (c), Suzie Bates, Eden Carson, Flora Devonshire, Izzy Gaze, Maddy Green, Brooke Halliday, Bree Illing, Polly Inglis, Bella James, Melie Kerr, Jess Kerr, Rosemary Mair, Georgia Plimmer, Lea Tahuhu.