Women’s WC: Sophie Devine gets emotional as teammates gift her special memento for 300-match milestone
Sophie Devine, New Zealand’s captain, burst into tears after teammates handed her a set of heartfelt gifts to mark her 300 international matches. The milestone came when the White Ferns faced South Africa at the Holkar Stadium on Monday, a game that ended in a loss for New Zealand but left the team buzzing with celebration.
Even though the Proteas edged past the Ferns, the side had double the reason to cheer: Devine played her 300th game, while teammate Suzie Bates reached 350 international appearances.
After the final ball, ICC fans saw a short clip of Devine’s teammates presenting her with a “wee pounamu.” Lea Tahuhu explained the stone symbolizes strength, connection, protection, and identity – qualities she said the captain embodies. “Sophie, this pounamu represents the strength, connection, protection, and identity of our country. You carry mana (prestige) and wairua (soul) to wear it with pride everywhere,” Tahuhu said.
Jess Kerr followed the gift‑giving by handing Devine a custom‑engraved bat. The bat featured doodles of the player’s record matches and milestones. “It’s not just about the stats,” Kerr told her. “It’s about who you are, the teammate and friend all of us admire.”
Devine’s emotional speech cut the crowd to pieces. She thanked Suzie for being her constant companion on the field, noting that she wouldn’t have reached 300 matches without her. “I started at 17 and I’m now 36, but the sense of humour stays,” she said between tears. “I’m proud of each of you, and this journey would be nothing without you.”
New Zealand now needs a rebound after losing their first two games. The team heads to Guwahati for a match against Bangladesh on Friday at Barsapara Cricket Stadium, hoping to revive their World Cup campaign.
Source: ianslive
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