Following New Zealand’s exit from the Women’s Cricket World Cup, captain Sophie Devine shared her insights on the state of women’s cricket, particularly in India. After a disappointing match against India, where the hopes of progressing to the semi-finals were dashed, Devine reflected on the future of the sport.
Sophie Devine Talks Women’s Cricket and Future Prospects
Devine, who has led the New Zealand team in five World Cups, is set to retire from One Day Internationals (ODIs) after their upcoming match against England. She expressed optimism about the growth of women’s cricket in India, citing the significant attention and infrastructure provided by the Women’s Premier League (WPL).
New Zealand’s Domestic Challenges
Despite her admiration for India’s cricket structure, Devine acknowledged the struggles of New Zealand cricket, stating, “We’re not like India. We don’t have one billion people.” New Zealand, with a population of five million, faces different challenges in developing its cricketing talent. She emphasized the need for realistic expectations regarding the pace of improvement in their domestic system.
Future of Women’s Cricket
Devine believes that with the right attention and investment, India can lead the way in women’s cricket globally. She expressed her excitement about the current developments, noting the increasing interest and support for the women’s game.
Emotional Reflections
Having invested years in New Zealand cricket, Devine described her upcoming retirement as bittersweet. She compared her relationship with the team to that of a proud mother and emphasized the emotional journey she is undergoing. “It’s tough,” she admitted, acknowledging the weather’s impact on their performance during the tournament.
Challenges Faced in the Tournament
Devine highlighted the disappointment of being unable to play due to adverse weather conditions. She stated, “We lost the first two games, putting ourselves under pressure.” Despite their preparation and effort, she recognized that sometimes performance does not reflect hard work.
Praising the Competition
In her reflections, Devine commended Indian vice-captain Smriti Mandhana for her exceptional performance, scoring 105 runs off 95 balls during the match. She acknowledged Mandhana’s skill and commitment to improving her game.
Looking Ahead
As New Zealand prepares for their final match against England, Devine is determined to leave on a high note. “We’ll pull ourselves up and give England a good run for their money,” she stated confidently.
- Event: Women’s Cricket World Cup
- Teams: New Zealand, India, England
- Devine’s Position: Captain of New Zealand
- Retirement: Set to retire on Sunday after the final match
- Population Comparison: New Zealand (5 million) vs. India (1 billion)
Devine’s reflections and hopes for the future of women’s cricket signal a transitional phase for both her career and the sport as a whole. Despite the challenges ahead, her leadership will leave a lasting impact on New Zealand cricket.
