Captain’s century offers silver lining after 89-run loss in Indore
New Zealand skipper Sophie Devine insists there is more to cricket than just the scoreboard after the White Ferns fell to Australia by 89 runs in their ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup clash in Indore.
While the reigning champions flexed their dominance, New Zealand found encouragement in their resilience, with Devine leading from the front in a battling knock that gave her side belief during a daunting chase.
Devine’s gritty hundred a statement of character
In a match where Australia looked in control for long stretches, Devine stood tall with a defiant century, injecting life into New Zealand’s innings and offering a glimpse of what her team is capable of when under pressure.
“I’ll just say come and feel my shirt, I think you’ll see how tough that was,” she joked after the game. “But what makes me proud is the unseen work this group has put in over the last year. Every player has been pushing themselves to be fitter, stronger, and ready for moments like this.”
Her performance underlined the importance of leadership, particularly in helping a young squad build belief against the world’s top teams.
Signs of growth despite defeat
Although the scoreboard showed a heavy margin, Devine stressed that the real story was the fight New Zealand displayed.
“Two years ago, we probably would have folded early,” she admitted. “But this time, the team showed character. We stayed in the contest, and everyone wanted to contribute right until the end.”
The likes of Izzy Gaze, Maddy Green, and Brooke Halliday provided vital support, demonstrating that the Ferns are learning to play to their strengths and extend contests against stronger opposition.
Bigger picture: tournament still wide open
With six pool matches still to play, New Zealand’s campaign remains alive. The top four sides will progress to the semi-finals, and Devine is confident her side has the tools to challenge.
“Yes, results matter,” she said. “But the way we played tonight gives me confidence. If we can keep pushing the world’s best teams and extend our good periods of cricket, we’ll be right there at the business end of the tournament.”
Analysis: why this performance matters
While an 89-run loss can look demoralizing, New Zealand’s refusal to crumble is a positive sign for a side in transition. Devine’s hundred not only kept her team fighting but also set the tone for how the Ferns want to approach the tournament: with grit, belief, and a willingness to compete against the very best.
If they can build on this spirit, the Indore defeat may ultimately serve as a stepping stone rather than a setback.