Sophie Devine: A Necessary Break for Mental Health
Click to start listening
Synopsis
Sophie Devine opens up about her mental health break, revealing the toll of a rigorous cricket schedule. After missing key matches, she is ready to return for New Zealand against Australia, expressing gratitude for the support she's received. The upcoming Women’s ODI World Cup adds to her motivation.
Key Takeaways
- Sophie Devine took a well-being break from cricket.
- She missed matches against Sri Lanka and withdrew from WPL 2025.
- Devine emphasizes the importance of mental health support.
- She feels motivated by the upcoming Women’s ODI World Cup.
- Sophie is prepared for her return against Australia.
New Delhi, March 19 (NationPress) After being included in New Zealand’s squad for the forthcoming series against Australia, seasoned all-rounder Sophie Devine disclosed that the relentless cricket schedule took a toll on her more than she had anticipated, prompting her to take a much-needed break for her well-being.
Sophie, 35, has been on a well-being hiatus since January, which led to her absence from New Zealand’s white-ball matches against Sri Lanka and her withdrawal from WPL 2025 with the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). She is set to make her comeback for New Zealand's upcoming T20I series against Australia in Auckland starting this Friday.
“It probably just got to a point where I needed to step away for a little bit. Obviously, the last 12-18 months have been massive for me personally, but also for the White Ferns group, considering the amount of cricket we've played, including winning the World Cup and other events. It likely impacted me more than I realized,” she commented.
“Thanks to the support from New Zealand Cricket, my family, and friends, I’ve been fortunate to have this time away. I strongly believe in the importance of mental health and taking necessary breaks. I am grateful for the encouragement I've received from everyone, including well-wishers. Spending some time away has been beneficial,” Sophie shared with reporters upon her arrival in Auckland on Wednesday.
This marks the second time Sophie has taken a well-being break in her international career, which commenced in 2006. Initially, she didn’t keep track of New Zealand's performance against Sri Lanka but later began following the matches. Sophie expressed that the motivation to return stems from the upcoming Women’s ODI World Cup scheduled in India later this year.
“At first, I certainly switched off from everything. I would describe it as more of a hibernation; I went into hiding a bit. However, over the last couple of weeks, I have been watching and keeping up with them. The World Cup was particularly significant for me; I still feel like I have more to contribute,” she explained.
“The black shirt is there, so for me, I guess that opportunity was available. But I’m also at peace with the idea that if I were done, I’ve had a good run. However, watching the girls recently has sparked a big desire to return,” she added.
“I’ve been really impressed with the new talent joining the squad and their ability to rise to the occasion has been exhilarating. It’s been wonderful to observe the team from a distance. Regardless of what happens, I will always support the White Ferns, but it’s exciting to be back in an environment I love,” she remarked.
Sophie concluded by stating that she has been physically preparing herself to make a strong return for the series against Australia, commencing at Eden Park in Auckland, right before the New Zealand men’s team competes against Pakistan at the same venue, which has led to a complete sell-out of tickets.
“The discussions I've had with the White Ferns staff indicate that I don’t want to return underprepared. I’ve been training diligently for weeks, so I feel as ready as possible. However, you never truly know until you’re in the heat of the game,” she expressed.
“So, I’m as prepared as I can be. We'll see what unfolds. I must first ensure I can secure my place in the team, considering the new faces. We’ll leave that decision to the coaching staff. Competing against the Australians is always a formidable challenge,” she noted.
“We have a mutual respect for one another, and we are aware of the challenge ahead. They are currently the number one team in the world, with depth and skill throughout their lineup, but we relish the opportunity to face them. We also appreciate playing alongside the Black Caps at these magnificent venues. We’re looking forward to the challenge,” Devine concluded.
