New Zealand’s Sophie Devine withdraws from Sri Lanka series to focus on well-being

In a major development, New Zealand Cricket (NZC) has announced that star all-rounder Sophie Devine will miss the upcoming white-ball series against Sri Lanka. This follows her earlier withdrawals from the Women’s Super Smash and the 2025 Women’s Premier League (WPL), signaling a strong emphasis on her personal well-being.

NZC extended full support to Devine, stressing that player welfare remains their top priority. “Sophie has been an incredible asset to the team, but her health and well-being come first,” stated an NZC spokesperson.

“We support her decision wholeheartedly and look forward to seeing her back when she’s ready,” the spokesperson added.

A pivotal player for the White Ferns

Devine has been a cornerstone of the White Ferns, known for her explosive batting and impactful bowling performances. Her absence from the Women’s Super Smash, a premier domestic T20 competition, hinted at her need for rest. Now, opting out of the Sri Lanka series further highlights the seriousness of her situation.

Skipping WPL adds to the concern

Devine was set to play a crucial role in the WPL 2025, but she has also stepped away from the tournament. She had previously cited professional advice as the reason for these decisions, aiming to manage both her physical and mental health effectively.

Also READ: RCB announces replacements of Sophie Devine and Kate Cross for WPL 2025

Impact on New Zealand’s team

Losing a player of Devine’s caliber is a setback for New Zealand as they prepare for a tough contest against Sri Lanka. Her leadership and match-winning abilities will be missed, but the team management remains confident in the squad’s depth. Several young players will now have the opportunity to step up in her absence.

While Devine’s return timeline remains uncertain, her decision reflects a growing awareness of mental and physical well-being in modern cricket. Fans and teammates alike will be hoping for her swift recovery and eventual comeback.

Also READ: WV Raman suggests Australian legend as India’s mentor for Women’s ODI World Cup 2025

This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.