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Class act: Devine's words for injured Perry

The losing Kiwi captain was all class following the hamstring injury to Australia's star allrounder

Even after a heartbreaking four-run defeat, New Zealand captain Sophie Devine's heart went out to Ellyse Perry following the Australia superstar's potentially World Cup-ending injury.

Perry suffered damage to her right hamstring as the hosts emerged victorious from their sudden-death Twenty20 clash on Monday.

"Anyone that goes down at any point in a world event, it's really hard to see, especially someone like Ellyse because we know what she brings to the women's game," Devine said.

"People were saying she might not play this game, but I didn't have any doubts.

"She'd have to have her leg amputated for her not to take to the field.

"If (the injury is serious) it's a real blow for the women's game ... the world loses out on a great player."

With just six days until the final, it would take a near-miracle for the allrounder to recover in time if Australia get through Thursday's semi-final against England or South Africa at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

The 29-year-old looked shattered leaving Melbourne's Junction Oval on Monday, although Australia captain Meg Lanning said she was unsure about the severity of the injury,

Perry passed a pre-game fitness test, but after delivering a diving throw during New Zealand's innings she immediately winced in pain and clutched her right hamstring.

"It's really unfortunate for her to have to go off," Lanning said. "She's a really tough player but we'll just have to see what pans out over the next few days."

2020 ICC Women's T20 World Cup

February 21:India beat Australia by 17 runs

February 24: Australia beat Sri Lanka by five wickets

February 27: Australia beat Bangladesh by 86 runs 

March 2: Australia beat New Zealand by four runs

March 5: Semi-final 1 & Semi-final 2, SCG

March 8: Final, MCG

For a full list of all World Cup fixtures, click HERE

* All matches will be broadcast on Fox Cricket and Kayo, while Australia's matches will also be broadcast on the Nine Network