Sophie Devine Open to NZ20 as New Zealand Faces Shift in Cricket Direction

New Zealand are looking forward to launch their own franchise T20 league, possibly named as NZ20. It would certainly represent a change of direction for the Kiwis who have not explored this lucrative circuit for quite some time.

Sophie Devine has thrown her weight behind the competition, saying it will provide more growth opportunities for women's cricket in New Zealand. She cited the example of WBBL, describing how it has helped the Australians to play more competitive cricket at home.

"Where I lean towards is the women's game here in New Zealand and whatever that looks like. Whether that is a team in the Big Bash, whether that's the NZ20, we've got to make sure that we're supporting the women's game and that they're playing more games of cricket.” said Sophie Devine.

"I've been really fortunate to have played around the world, [for] different franchises, have played a lot in Australia (143 WBBL games) and the thing that stands out is how well they're supported at their home boards and the opportunities that they've got to play competitive cricket. If anything, I probably do lean towards the NZ20." added Sophie Devine.

She further said that NZ20 brings a great opportunity for the Kiwis to develop their own franchise T20 league. It is something that will help every cricketer in New Zealand, just like the WBBL did for the Australian women’s team.

"I think the opportunity to build something here in New Zealand, hopefully play more games of cricket within New Zealand, is really exciting. But equally, I mean, I've been involved in the Big Bash from the start so I know exactly what that tournament can bring. But at the end of the day, we've got to do what's best for, I guess, the game in general.” said Sophie Devine.

"But obviously for me, I've obviously got a vested interest in the women's game and making sure that we don't let that slide whatever decision is made. We need to make sure that there's competitive cricket and enough of it as well. I think that would be the biggest concern for me, if the women's domestic game is losing games of cricket.” added Sophie Devine.