Sophie Devine to step down as New Zealand T20I captain after World T20 League 

Sophie Devine will stand down as New Zealand’s T20I skipper at the end of the forthcoming World T20 League in the UAE but will remain to lead the ODI side. 

Devine, who has led the White Ferns in 56 T20Is, will continue to play the format but felt the time was right to shred some of her workload and help foster the next generation of leaders. The next global event is the ODI World Series which will take place in India next year. 

“I'm very proud to have had the privilege to captain the White Ferns in both formats," Devine said. "With captaincy comes an additional workload that, while I've enjoyed taking on, can also be challenging at times.

"Stepping away from the T20 captaincy will take a bit off my plate so I can focus more of my energy on my playing role and nurturing the future leaders."

"I'm not ready to give up ODI captaincy just yet," she added. "But I won't be around forever, so I think stepping away from captaining one format at a time gives the next leaders time to find their feet."

The head coach of New Zealand Women, Ben Sawyer, said: "Soph is the epitome of a fearless leader and we're really grateful for the leadership she brings to this group on and off the field.

 "She's one of the most experienced White Ferns ever and her leadership and knowledge of the game has been so valuable as we have introduced several young players into the team over the past two years.

"I know the decision wasn't easy for Soph, but I fully support it and know that she's still going to be a prominent leader in the group."

Devine is currently recovering from a foot injury ahead of NZ’s three-match T20I series in Australia in the subsequent month which will act as preparation for the World T20 League. NZ will name their squad on September 10. 

A decision on who will replace Devine as skipper in the T20I setup is yet to be made with White Ferns’ next series in the format after the World T20 League not until they take the field against Sri Lanka in March.