Photo Credit: Sydney Thunder
Australian vice-captain Rachael Haynes has announced her retirement from international cricket.
Haynes confirmed she has also played her last domestic match for New South Wales, while Weber WBBL|08 will be her last for the Sydney Thunder.
Throughout a career that spanned more than a decade, Haynes played 84 Twenty20 Internationals, 77 One-Day Internationals and six Tests.
A top order batter, Haynes scored nearly 4,000 runs across all three formats, including 98 on Test debut against England in 2009, two ODI centuries and 19 half-centuries.
The left-hander also claimed 13 wickets, while her dynamic fielding ability was regularly on show.
Haynes first captained Australia during her second stint in the side, leading the team at the 2017 ICC Women’s World Cup with Meg Lanning battling an ongoing shoulder issue.
In 2018 Haynes was named Australian vice-captain, playing pivotal roles in Australia’s ICC Women’s T20 World Cup victories in 2018 and 2020, Women’s World Cup win in 2022 and historic Commonwealth Games gold medal run in July.
Speaking after the decision, Haynes said:
“Playing at this level isn’t possible without the support of many people. From clubs, states, coaches, family and friends, I’m so grateful to those who helped me along the way. In particular, I want to thank my parents Ian and Jenni, and partner Leah for their unwavering support.
“To all the teammates across my career, you are the reason I’ve played as long as I have. You’ve inspired me to be better every day. I’ve learnt something from all of you, on and off the field. You’ve challenged me as a player, helped me grow as a person and most importantly, made cricket fun.
“One of the great things about having a long career is watching those around you develop. I’m extremely proud of the way this team has brought players in and nurtured their development. The ability to help players transition smoothly has been instrumental to our team’s success. To be a leader within this environment has been the greatest privilege of my career.”
Cricket Australia Chief Executive Officer, Nick Hockley said:
“On behalf of everyone at Cricket Australia I’d like to congratulate Rachael on an amazing career and also recognise the outstanding contribution she has made off the field.
“Rachael’s calm and assured leadership has played a key role in Australia becoming one of the most successful sporting teams in history. She will go down as a great of the game.
“Rachael has been an inspirational figure for kids coming into the game and to her many teammates and has played an integral part in the advancement of cricket as a sport for women and girls, both here in Australia and around the world.
”We look forward to watching Rachael in the WBBL this season and hope she maintains a close connection to the game in coming years.”
