- by Masivuye Mzimkhulu
- on 7 Oct, 2025
When Suzy Bates, captain of the New Zealand women's cricket team, stepped onto the crease at the Holkar Stadium on October 6, 2025, she wasn’t just playing another World Cup match – she was about to become the first woman to log 350 international appearances. At the same time, fellow veteran Sophie Devine was set to reach her 300th game, a milestone that places her among an elite circle of female cricketers. Both milestones came in the second group‑stage clash of the 2025 ICC Women's ODI World CupIndore, India, a fixture that could swing the White Ferns back into the tournament’s second phase.
Historic milestones for New Zealand's White Ferns
The White Ferns have long been led by players who combine longevity with outright brilliance. Bates, who debuted against India on March 30, 2006 at age 19, already boasts more than a decade of batting, fielding and occasional captaincy duties. Her parallel career as a basketball Olympian – representing New Zealand at the 2008 Beijing Games – makes the 350‑match figure feel almost cinematic.
Devine entered the international arena just three months later, on May 13, 2006, as a 17‑year‑old all‑rounder on a tour of Australia. By the time she lines up for her 300th match, she will join the likes of Mithali Raj, Harmanpreet Kaur, Charlotte Edwards, Danni Wyatt‑Hodge and Ellyse Perry – a club that reads like a hall of fame.
The match context: New Zealand vs South Africa
Both teams arrive in Indore with bruised egos. New Zealand’s opening game against Australia ended in an 89‑run defeat despite Devine’s blistering century (112 runs off 84 balls). South Africa, meanwhile, were skittled for just 69 by England in Guwahati on September 30, 2025, leaving them desperate for a bounce‑back.
"We’ll be familiar with the conditions again," Bates said in the pre‑match press conference. "Playing back‑to‑back games here means we don’t have to travel, and that’s an advantage." She added a measured warning: "South Africa are going to be hurting after their first game, but I know how they play – they’ll fight back."
Reactions from the veterans
When asked about the weight of the combined 650 international caps, Bates laughed, "There’s a bit of embarrassment, sure – we’re getting older. But it’s a World Cup game, not a retirement party. Our focus is on winning and playing well."
Devine, who announced she will retire from ODIs after the tournament but remain available for T20s, replied, "I’m grateful for the journey. Knowing I’m leaving a legacy that includes Suzy’s 350 games makes it special."
Both women praised each other’s impact. "You’re not ever going to replace a Sophie Devine," Bates asserted. "She’s changed the game with her power hitting. Every opponent fears that. No one else from New Zealand brings that explosiveness."
What the numbers mean for the team
- Combined 650 international matches – a testament to durability and fitness regimes that have evolved since 2006.
- New Zealand’s batting strike‑rate in the tournament sits at 78.4, compared with 71.2 in the previous World Cup.
- South Africa’s bowling economy in their first match was 5.6 runs per over, a figure New Zealand will aim to push above 6.
- Both Bates and Devine have recorded over 4,000 ODI runs each, contributing roughly 30% of the White Ferns' total runs this edition.
Coach Josh Blackwell believes the experience factor will be decisive. "When you have two players who have seen every possible scenario, that steadiness filters through the squad. It’s not just about runs; it’s about calm under pressure," he told reporters.
Looking ahead: Future of the White Ferns
With the World Cup set to wrap up on October 14, the White Ferns must secure a win against South Africa to keep medal hopes alive. A victory would also give Bates and Devine a chance to celebrate their milestones on a high note – something they hinted would happen after the match.
Beyond the tournament, New Zealand Cricket (NZC) has outlined a pathway for younger talent, aiming to replace the aging core by 2028. A development program launched in 2022 focuses on fast‑bowling academies in Auckland and Wellington, while a new “Women’s Elite” contract system promises better financial security for upcoming players.
When asked about the long‑term plan, Bates said, "We’re building for the next generation. If Sophie and I can hand over a winning culture, that’s the real legacy."
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Suzy Bates's 350th match affect New Zealand's World Cup chances?
Bates’s experience adds strategic depth, especially in high‑pressure chases. Her knowledge of Indian pitches, gained from previous tours, helps the team set realistic targets and manage bowling changes, which could prove decisive against South Africa.
What does Sophie Devine's 300th appearance mean for women's cricket?
Reaching 300 ODIs places Devine among a select group of multiformat stars, underscoring the growing longevity of female cricketers. Her milestone highlights the success of professional contracts that allow athletes to extend careers beyond the early twenties.
Why is the match against South Africa crucial after New Zealand's loss to Australia?
A win restores confidence and keeps the Ferns in contention for a quarter‑final berth. It also offers a chance to fine‑tune the batting order before facing the final group opponent, England, who sit at the top of the table.
What are the experts saying about New Zealand's chances in the tournament?
Cricket analyst Mike Selvey notes that "New Zealand’s blend of experience and emerging pace talent could surprise higher‑ranked sides, provided they capitalize on the home‑like conditions in central India."
Will Sophie Devine continue in T20 internationals after retiring from ODIs?
Yes. Devine confirmed she will remain available for the New Zealand T20 side, aiming to contribute her explosive batting and handy medium‑pace bowling in the shorter format for at least another two years.
Allen Rodi
October 7, 2025 AT 04:47Congrats to both Suzy and Sophie – hitting 350 and 300 games is huge. It shows how dedication and good fitness can keep you at the top for years. The Ferns definitely need that experience to push past South Africa.
Jody Webster
October 14, 2025 AT 01:21Well…i guess “milestones” r just a number!!!
Steve Goodger
October 20, 2025 AT 21:55Reaching 350 and 300 caps is a testament not only to personal perseverance but also to the evolving support structures within New Zealand cricket; the infrastructure that allows athletes to extend their careers has improved dramatically over the past decade. When Suzy debuted in 2006, resources for women’s cricket were limited, yet she managed to balance a dual-sport career, highlighting the importance of cross-disciplinary training. Over the years, investment in sports science, nutrition, and injury prevention has become more sophisticated, enabling players like her to maintain high performance levels without burning out. Moreover, the professional contracts introduced in the early 2010s gave players financial security, allowing them to focus entirely on their game. This stability fosters a culture where experience is valued and younger players can learn directly from seasoned veterans on the field. The mentorship aspect cannot be overstated; younger batters gain insights into reading conditions, handling pressure, and building innings from someone who has faced every scenario imaginable. In addition, the mental health support now available helps players cope with the rigors of constant travel and competition. The fact that Sophie also hits the 300‑match mark underscores how the duo’s longevity is not a fluke but a product of systemic progress. Their combined 650 caps provide a reservoir of strategic knowledge that can be leveraged during crucial moments, such as altering field placements or rotating the strike. The coaching staff can use their feedback to refine game plans, especially in sub‑continental conditions where spin and low‑bounce dominate. From a statistical perspective, their contributions account for roughly a third of the team’s run tally, a clear indicator of their central role. The psychological boost to the squad, knowing that such stalwarts are present, can translate into heightened confidence across the lineup. Looking ahead, their presence also serves as a bridge to the upcoming generation, ensuring a smoother transition when the time comes to hand over the reins. Ultimately, these milestones symbolize both individual excellence and collective advancement in women’s cricket. The world should take notice, as the Ferns set a benchmark for longevity and professionalism.