Suzie Bates is on the verge of creating history as the first woman to play 350 international matches when New Zealand face South Africa in Indore on Monday at the 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup. Adding to the occasion, White Ferns captain Sophie Devine will also feature in her 300th international appearance.
Bates Reflects on Journey With Devine
Bates, who debuted in 2006 against India at just 19, admitted that both she and Devine feel “a little embarrassed” about celebrating milestones, joking that it’s simply “because we’re getting old.”
But the veteran acknowledged the significance of the moment, saying:
“After the game, Sophie and I will sit and reminisce on how far we’ve come… as players and as a team. There’s been so much growth in New Zealand women’s cricket, and we’ll be really proud when we look back on this.”
Bates, who once balanced an international basketball career—including representing New Zealand at the 2008 Beijing Olympics—has remained a pillar of consistency at the top of the order for nearly two decades.
Devine’s Impact & Retirement Plans
Devine made a powerful start to the World Cup, smashing a run-a-ball 112 against Australia, though it wasn’t enough to stop New Zealand from slipping to defeat.
Assistant coach Craig McMillan praised her knock:
“Whenever Sophie Devine’s at the crease, the game is never over. She’s put a stamp on this tournament right from the start, and that’s what you want from your captain.”
The skipper will retire from ODIs after this World Cup, though she will remain available for T20 internationals under a casual contract with New Zealand Cricket.
Bates hailed her teammate’s irreplaceable influence:
“You’re not ever going to replace Sophie Devine. She’s changed the game with her power-hitting, her bowling, and her leadership. There’s going to be no other Sophie Devine in New Zealand cricket.”
Fitness Update: Rosemary Mair Nearing Return
Seamer Rosemary Mair, who missed the opener due to a side strain, is recovering well but remains doubtful for the South Africa clash. Both Bates and McMillan confirmed she is “progressing nicely” but may not be risked so early in the tournament.
What’s at Stake?
Both New Zealand and South Africa come into the contest after heavy defeats in their opening matches. For the White Ferns, a victory would not only mark a historic personal milestone for two legends but also revive their World Cup campaign.