New Delhi
New Zealand women’s cricket captain Sophie Devine believes India, Australia, and Sri Lanka will be the toughest teams in the upcoming Women’s ODI World Cup starting September 30.
Devine, who plans to retire from the 50-over format after the tournament, said each team presents a unique challenge. “Australia are defending champions, so they’re always tough. India, with home support and squad depth, will be strong. Sri Lanka too, are great at home,” she shared in her ICC column.
New Zealand, winners of the 2024 T20 World Cup, are aiming for their first ODI title since 2000. Devine highlighted their August training camp at the CSK Academy in Chennai as key preparation. “Adapting to Indian and Sri Lankan conditions was crucial. The camp helped our players get used to it,” she said.
She praised the blend of youth and experience in her squad, pointing to young talents like Eden Carson and Izzy Gaze, alongside veterans like Maddy Green and Brooke Halliday.
Devine added that the team looks forward to embracing the rich cultures of India and Sri Lanka while staying focused on their goal. “We’re here to enjoy, but also to win,” she concluded.