NZ vs AUS Women’s World Cup 2025: Sophie Devine Calls Australia Clash a ‘Big Sister Rivalry’

NZ vs AUS Women’s World Cup 2025 – New Zealand skipper Sophie Devine is embracing the challenge of facing defending champions Australia, despite the White Ferns’ long winless streak against their trans-Tasman rivals.

It has been over eight years since New Zealand last defeated Australia in a women’s ODI, but Devine insists history counts for little on the World Cup stage.

“Thanks for that stat. I think it’s a great opportunity. Those stats are there and we’re aware of them, but it doesn’t matter in World Cups. Records and previous results go out of the window for us. We love any opportunity that we get to play against Australia, who is sort of like our big sister,” Devine said at the pre-match press conference on Tuesday.

Australia vice-captain Tahlia McGrath echoed the sentiment, stressing that past records hold little weight in a global tournament.

“That’s a pretty good stat. But these records are irrelevant in a World Cup, as it is the hardest to win. We’ve got a really nice rivalry with New Zealand. We call it the friendly rivalry,” McGrath noted.

Holkar Stadium Debut for Women’s Cricket

Both captains expressed excitement about playing at the Holkar Stadium, which is hosting its first women’s international fixture.

McGrath described it as “a really high-scoring venue” and praised the stadium atmosphere, while Devine pointed out the “incredibly flat wickets and brilliant outfield,” calling it an exciting prospect for the World Cup.

As New Zealand look to break their losing streak and Australia aim to maintain their dominance, fans can expect another fiery yet friendly chapter in one of cricket’s most respected rivalries.