Sophie Devine targets WBBL return after severe calf injury

New Zealand cricketer Sophie Devine is targeting a return for the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) following a severe grade 3C calf tear. The injury forced her to end her campaign with Welsh Fire in The Hundred after only four games.

Devine, who recently retired from T20 internationals, was serving as captain for Welsh Fire when the injury occurred. She has been replaced in the leadership role by Australian all-rounder Georgia Wareham. Medical professionals estimate a rehabilitation period of eight to 12 weeks.

Devine has participated in all 11 previous editions of the WBBL, playing five seasons with the Adelaide Strikers and six with the Perth Scorchers. She expressed a desire to manage her recovery carefully to prevent the injury from becoming a recurring issue before the tournament begins on October 29.