Sophie Devine’s emotions after New Zealand’s washed-out game against Pakistan summed up the heartbreak of a campaign battling not just opponents, but the weather itself. Speaking candidly after the rain wiped out another crucial fixture, Devine reflected on how the elements had shaped this World Cup in disappointing ways for her side — a frustration shared by fans and teammates alike.
Sophie Devine Calls for Smarter Scheduling After Rain Hits New Zealand’s World Cup Campaign
Earlier in the week, South Africa and Sri Lanka had endured a five-hour rain delay in their group match before managing to squeeze in a 20-over contest. That game set a hopeful precedent for Devine and her team.
“We had a little bit of hope seeing the South Africa game the other day and that they were off the field for five hours and came back,” she shared. “We just needed the rain to hold off, but it didn’t happen today.” Her words carried the wistful tone of a captain who saw the same window of opportunity, only for it to close before their eyes.
In a must-win New Zealand held Pakistan to 92 for 5 in 25 overs, putting them in a dominant position before the rain arrived. Amelia Kerr, Eden Carson, and Jess Kerr each contributed a wicket to keep Pakistan in check, while Lea Tahuhu was the star with the ball, taking 2 for 20.
The only significant opposition in a batting lineup that found it difficult to keep up with New Zealand’s methodical attack was Aliya Riaz. Before the rain arrived and ruined what appeared to be a much-needed victory and turned the game into yet another frustrating no-result, the White Ferns appeared to be headed for a comfortable chase.
The weight of disappointment from several washouts, earlier against Sri Lanka, was reflected in Devine’s statement following the abandonment. Rain has now completely ruined two of New Zealand’s games, including their match against Sri Lanka and the match against Pakistan.
As a result, the team now needs to win their remaining games. “It’s extremely frustrating, let’s be honest. You wait four years for a World Cup and to have suffer through the rain,” she said. Her remarks were the reality of a team battling uncontrollable circumstances, not grievances.
Her suggestion to adjust schedules points to a captain who thinks beyond her own frustrations. “I hope in future editions, they think of playing earlier in the day. We have seen the rain comes in the evening so play at 10 or 11.” It’s a practical idea born of experience and desperation to protect the integrity of big tournaments, where every game matters.
For Sophie Devine, watching a tournament slip away under grey skies is a painful reminder of cricket’s unpredictability. “For the game, to be scuppered by rain is a real shame for me,” she said — a line that captures the spirit of a leader who gave everything to the contest, only to have it swept aside by forces no strategy could control.
With their semifinal hopes still mathematically alive, New Zealand’s story now becomes one of resilience — hoping the skies will finally give them a chance to fight on the field, not from the pavilion.
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