End of an era! New Zealand legend Suzie Bates announces international retirement after T20 World Cup

NEW DELHI: Suzie Bates has announced that she will retire from international cricket after the upcoming ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in England, bringing an end to a long and successful career.

Having played 362 matches for New Zealand since her debut in 2006, Bates has been one of the team’s most consistent performers with both bat and ball.

Looking back at her journey, Bates said, "When I look back on the past twenty-plus years, I can't quite believe how quickly the time has gone. I'm immensely proud to have worn the fern so many times, and I've been filled with enormous purpose and joy in striving each day to be a better person, teammate, cricketer, and athlete for this team."

She also added, "I have one final mission: to head to the UK - a place that holds so many special memories for me - and win another World Cup."

A career full of records and achievements

Bates leaves behind an incredible record.

She is New Zealand’s highest run-scorer across formats and has scored 14 international centuries while also taking 145 wickets. Known mainly for her batting at the top order, she also made important contributions as a bowler, especially earlier in her career.

She captained New Zealand from 2011 to 2018 and won multiple ICC awards, including ODI Cricketer of the Year.

One of her standout performances came in the 2013 World Cup, where she was the leading run-scorer.

One last dance

In recent years, Bates has continued to play a key role in the team, even stepping in as captain when needed.

She was also part of the squad that won the 2024 T20 World Cup, a major milestone for New Zealand.

Now, as she prepares for her final tournament, Bates will aim to help her team win another title before she calls time on her international career.