Sophie Devine cites break from professional cricket to focus on personal well-being

New Zealand Women’s ace all-rounder, Sophie Devine has sought a break from the professional commitments as the veteran has expressed her need to focus on the personal well-being. Devine is currently taking part in the ongoing Super Smash for Wellington. She has so far scored 38 runs and grabbed eight wickets in five games. She last featured for Wellington in a game against Canterbury in Christchurch as she turned the match around with 13/5.

The right-handed batter’s decision will see her miss the remainder of the ongoing domestic season and return home. Not only this, Devine, who is an integral part of Royal Challengers Bengaluru Women (RCB-W)’s setup in Women’s Premiere League (WPL), will miss the upcoming 2025 season. While unfurling the news, New Zealand Cricket also added that, the right-arm pacer’s future prospects shall be discussed as they acknowledged the importance of Devine’s decision. 

"Player well-being is paramount to us - it takes precedence over everything else. Sophie's had excellent support from the New Zealand Cricket Players Association and from our own high performance unit staff, and everyone agrees this is the best option available. The most important thing for NZC is that Sophie has a decent break, receives good support and care, and is fit and well before returning to professional cricket,” said Liz Green, NZC's head of women's high performance development.

Also Check: RCB Women Squad Player List: Full Royal Challengers Bengaluru Women Player List for WPL 2025

With this development, RCB women are short of an experienced all-rounder in their upcoming season. It is also worth noting that both NZC and RCB have acknowledged the veteran’s decision. RCB are yet to reveal the name of Devine’s replacement as they are short of an overseas player at the same time. In WPL 2024, she played 10 games and scored 136 runs and picked six wickets as the franchise lifted the trophy.