Sophie Devine wins CPA Players' Award

Sophie Devine was adjudged the best player by the New Zealand Cricket Players’ Association, it was announced on Wednesday (April 8).

Devine had an excellent run of form heading into the T20 World Cup, where she strung together five successive scores of fifty or more, including hitting her maiden T20I century against the touring South Africans.

“As a team you guys are really exciting to watch. I can see what you are trying to achieve,” said Rebecca Rolls, the former wicketkeeper-batter, who presented Devine with the award.

“When everything goes right, no one bosses the game like you do. When you get recognition from your team-mates, it’s so much cooler not only because they are great cricketers and therefore experts but they also know your struggles and what the team is trying to achieve.”

Rolls went on to say that it was tough to chose Devine over other contenders like Suzie Bates, Amelia Ker and Hayley Jensen, all of whom did come up with match-winning performances.

ALSO READ: Suzie Bates and her maiden T20I ton

“This is really the most special award because it is from your peers. I thank everyone for it,” said Devine. “The great thing is there were a whole lot of people who could have won this award. It’s a great sign about this team is that there are a lot of people contributing which will hold us in good stead moving forward.”

“We really appreciate the time you’ve spent watching the group and what you have offered for us. We certainly wouldn’t be where we are without players like you, who laid the foundation for us.”

Owing to COVID-19 pandemic, the event was held over a video call.

“Obviously (this is) a bit different to normal awards show because I don’t have to wear a dress or something and I’m pretty stoked about it,” said Devine with a laugh. “It’s good to see you all and specially not be in tights and being in a half moon pose.”

This is the third consecutive time that the New Zealand skipper has won this award.