Sophie Devine Calls for Cricket Rule Overhaul

New Zealand captain Sophie Devine advocates for changes in women's cricket rules, suggesting modifications to fielding regulations and boundary lengths. She criticizes the current rules for being too favorable to batters and discusses the growing use of the 'retired-out' strategy as a tactical advantage in the Women's Premier League.

Sophie Devine, the captain of New Zealand's women's cricket team, has raised concerns about the current fielding rules and boundary lengths, asserting that they skew the game in favor of batters. Devine argues that allowing only four fielders outside the restricted area during non-powerplay overs helps create higher scores and entertaining matches but tips the balance unfairly against bowlers.

In the Women's Premier League, maximum boundary lengths are set at 60 meters, compared to up to 77 meters in men's tournaments. Devine suggests a revision to allow five fielders on the boundary to align more closely with men's cricket and provide a more balanced contest between bat and ball.

Devine, a top performer in the Women's Premier League, also touched on the 'retired-out' strategy, which has gained traction in recent matches. She sees the tactic as beneficial for team momentum, favoring it over the impact player rule that permits player substitutions mid-match. Devine believes in the importance of versatility in players' roles on the field.

(With inputs from agencies.)