New Zealand stalwarts Lea Tahuhu and Sophie Devine have confirmed they will be retiring at the end of this summer’s Women’s T20 World Cup, marking the end of illustrious careers for two of the game’s most influential figures.
All-rounder Devine, 36, had previously retired from one-day internationals after last year’s 50-over tournament. She has represented the White Ferns an impressive 310 times across both white-ball formats since her debut in 2006. Starting her career primarily as a bowler, Devine has evolved into one of the world’s leading all-rounders, accumulating 3,587 runs and taking 128 wickets in T20s.
Fast bowler Tahuhu, 35, has earned more than 200 caps for her country. Both players were instrumental in New Zealand’s surprising T20 World Cup victory in the United Arab Emirates in 2024, playing key roles in that memorable triumph.
Significant Transition for White Ferns
Their departures from the international game signal a significant transition period for New Zealand cricket. This follows the announcement last week by fellow veteran Suzie Bates, who also confirmed her retirement after their attempt to regain the title. This trio has formed the backbone of New Zealand’s side for the past 15 years, making their simultaneous exit a pivotal moment.
Head coach Ben Sawyer commented on the situation, stating, “To have our three most senior players all finishing their careers at the same tournament is a rare and special occasion. All three have had distinguished careers in their own right and have given so much to this team and the game in general.”
The White Ferns will be led by star all-rounder Melie Kerr for the upcoming World Cup. Kerr was notably the leading wicket-taker in their victorious campaign two years ago. Before the World Cup, the team is scheduled to play three ODIs and three T20s against England, with the series commencing on May 10 at Chester-le-Street.
New Zealand T20 World Cup Squad: Melie Kerr (capt), Suzie Bates, Sophie Devine, Flora Devonshire, Izzy Gaze (wk), Maddy Green, Brooke Halliday, Bree Illing, Polly Inglis (wk), Jess Kerr, Rosemary Mair, Nensi Patel, Georgia Plimmer, Izzy Sharp (wk), Lea Tahuhu.
#Cricket #WomensCricket #WhiteFerns #SophieDevine #LeaTahuhu #Retirement #T20WorldCup #NewZealandCricket #CricketLegends #SportsNews
Leave a Reply