New Zealand’s Devine wishes for fortune reversal as 2016 semi-finalists collide again

Sophie Devine, the New Zealand captain vividly remembers getting run-out by Deandra Dottin during the semi-final of the 2016 Women’s T20 World Cup. In that game, New Zealand lost to West Indies, who defeated Australia in the final to lift their maiden T20 World Cup. Eight years down the line and the Kiwi skipper wishes a role reversal in the fortunes of the two teams as they clash once again in the semi-final. 

“I'd like us to be holding the trophy up. But, yeah, it's cool to be able to be here and to be able to go back to that experience we had there. I thought we were a great group there and we're an awesome group in this tournament as well,” Devine said in the pre-match press conference on the eve of the semi-final clash, starting October 18. 

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Talking about  their mantra for success in this World Cup so far, Devine said, "We've spoken a lot as a group that we don't want to get too high and too low and that's really key for us is to make sure that we get back on that level playing with emotions.”

In New Zealand’s last game, after their win against Pakistan, Devine got emotional with long-time mates Suzie Bates and Lea Tahuhu. West Indies have similar players in Taylor and Dottin who have seen many summers as professionals. 

“I think there's such a huge amount of respect for all players in this tournament but certainly ones that have been there for a long period and Steph and Deandra have played for several years. 

To know what they've given to West Indies cricket. They are just two giants of the game and it is cool to be able to see them have success and empathise with them,” she said. 

The 35-year-old further said that youngsters in her team getting nervous is not an issue for the team. 

“I guess probably the train of thought that we're going with is that it is another game. I don't expect people to not be nervous. I think if they weren't, I'd probably be a little bit worried,” she said. 

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