White Ferns star Sophie Devine will step down as T20 captain at the end of the upcoming World Cup but will stay on as captain of the ODI side.
Devine, who has led the team in 56 T20 matches, said her desire to find a more balanced workload led to the decision.
"I'm very proud to have had the privilege to captain the White Ferns in both formats,” said Devine.
"With captaincy comes an additional workload that, while I’ve enjoyed taking on, can also be challenging at times. Stepping away from the T20 captaincy will take a bit off my plate so I can focus more of my energy on my playing role and nurturing the future leaders."
The 34-year-old first took on the role in the 2014-2015 season before becoming the permanent captain in both formats in 2020.
She said she was not ready to give up her ODI captaincy just yet but acknowledged she would not be around forever.
"I think stepping away from captaining one format at a time gives the next leaders time to find their feet."
Head coach Ben Sawyer said he was fully supportive of her decision.
"Soph is the epitome of a fearless leader and we’re really grateful for the leadership she brings to this group on and off the field," he said.
"She's one of the most experienced White Ferns ever and her leadership and knowledge of the game has been so valuable as we have introduced several young players into the team over the past two years.
“I know the decision wasn’t easy for Soph, but I fully support it and know that she’s still going to be a prominent leader in the group."
A decision on who will succeed Devine as captain will be made in "due course", the team said.
The White Ferns squad for the ICC Women's T20 World Cup will be announced on September 10.
SHARE ME