New Zealand’s Suzie Bates to End International Career at T20 World Cup

Suzie Bates, the seasoned all-rounder from New Zealand, is set to conclude her 20-year international journey after this year’s Women’s T20 World Cup. The 38-year-old, known for her batting and bowling prowess, will join the White Ferns squad for the tournament, which runs from 12 June to 5 July in England. In addition to competing in the T20 event, she will also take part in three ODIs and T20Is against England’s team in the following weeks.

From Basketball to Cricket: A Remarkable Transition

Initially stepping onto the international stage as a basketballer, Bates made history by representing New Zealand in the 2008 Beijing Olympics. Her cricket career began in 2006 with a debut against India, and she soon became a pivotal figure in women’s cricket. In 2011, she was appointed captain, leading her team in 151 matches over a seven-year tenure. Her legacy extends beyond the cricket field, as current captain Melie Kerr has praised her as a “role model” and “one of the greatest cricketers of all time.”

“She’s paved the way for a long time in women’s cricket, and what she’s done for cricket, the women’s game, and sport in New Zealand, she should be very proud of,” said Kerr.

Bates is the highest run-scorer in women’s T20 internationals with 4,717 runs, ranking fourth in One Day Internationals (ODIs). Her career also features 145 wickets and a record for most catches. Despite her retirement, she remains ambitious, aiming to add another World Cup title to her collection during her final international appearance in the UK.

Bates, who clinched the 2024 T20 World Cup, reflected on her journey: “When I look back on the past 20-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, team-mate, cricketer, and athlete for this team.”

Her achievements include being named Wisden’s leading female player in 2015 and twice winning the ICC Women’s ODI Cricketer of the Year award in 2013 and 2016. The 2013 World Cup, where she was the tournament’s top performer, marked a significant milestone in her career. As she prepares for her final games, Bates’ impact on New Zealand cricket and the global women’s game will be remembered for years to come.

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