New Zealand all-rounder Suzie Bates will retire from international cricket after the 2026 Women's T20 World Cup.
New Zealand’s star all-rounder Suzie Bates will retire from international cricket after the 2026 Women’s T20 World Cup. At 38, she remains part of the White Ferns’ squad for the tournament in England from June 12 to July 5.
Before stepping away, she will play three ODIs and T20Is against England next month. Bates holds records for most T20I runs (4,717) and ranks fourth in ODIs, with 145 wickets and the most catches in women’s cricket.
Bates, reflecting on her 20-year career in a statement, described the time as passing "incredibly quickly." She expressed pride in representing New Zealand, striving to improve as a player, teammate, and athlete.
Her final goal is clear: leading the White Ferns to victory in England, a country tied to many of her cherished memories. Making her debut in 2006, Bates became captain in 2011 and led the team in 151 matches over seven years.
Current skipper Melie Kerr called her a role model and one of the greatest cricketers of all time, praising her impact on women’s cricket and New Zealand sport.
Her achievements include Wisden’s leading female cricketer in 2015, two ICC ODI Cricketer of the Year awards (2013, 2016), and Player of the Tournament at the 2013 World Cup.
Off the field, she also competed in basketball for New Zealand, including at the 2008 Olympics. Bates’ retirement marks the end of an era, leaving behind a legacy that reshaped women’s cricket.
Fans can expect her to give one last competitive push in England, aiming to cap her career with a World Cup triumph before she steps away.