Bates hits 350 games, Devine 300 as NZ face South Africa in Indore

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."