Katey Martin calls curtains on her playing career

On Wednesday New Zealand Women’s wicket-keeper batsman Katey Martin announced her retirement from international and domestic cricket, bringing an end to a 21 year long career. 

Matin made her New Zealand test debut in whites which was also her only test against India in 2003 and went on to play 103 ODIs and 95 T20Is in her record 19-year international career.  Her 169 game domestic one day career is a New Zealand record for both men and women. 

"It's been an incredible experience," said Martin. "To all my team-mates, coaches, opposition, fans and friends I've met along the way, I want to thank you for making my time in cricket so memorable.

"Cricket really has given me my life - from leaving Dunedin as a youngster to attend the NZC Academy in Christchurch, to travelling the world as a WHITE FERN and representing my country - it's been a dream come true."

Martin, who was visibly emotional at the national anthems during New Zealand's last Women's ODI World Series game at home which was also her last appearance, said her mind was pretty much made up before that Pakistan tie.

"I knew heading into that match it could be my last time playing for New Zealand, hence why I was quite emotional," Martin said. "I took some time after the tournament to talk to family and friends to solidify my decision before making it official today."

New Zealand's head coach until the World Cup, Bob Carter said Martin brought a special kind of energy to the team environment.

"Katey Martin is one of a kind," said Carter. "The White Ferns environment is richer for having her around. She brought energy, excitement and fun to the group and her presence will be missed I'm sure.

"Her long service to both the Sparks and WHITE FERNS has been remarkable."

"It's been an incredible experience," said Martin. "To all my team-mates, coaches, opposition, fans and friends I've met along the way, I want to thank you for making my time in cricket so memorable.

"Cricket really has given me my life - from leaving Dunedin as a youngster to attend the NZC Academy in Christchurch, to traveling the world as a WHITE FERN and representing my country - it's been a dream come true."

Martin, who was visibly emotional at the national anthems on the day of New Zealand's last Women's ODI World Cup game at home recently, said her mind was pretty much made up before that Pakistan clash.

"I knew heading into that match it could be my last time playing for New Zealand, hence why I was quite emotional," Martin said. "I took some time after the tournament to talk to family and friends to solidify my decision before making it official today."

New Zealand's head coach until the World Cup, Bob Carter said Martin brought a special kind of energy to the team environment.

"Katey Martin is one of a kind," said Carter. "The White Ferns environment is richer for having her around. She brought energy, excitement and fun to the group and her presence will be missed I'm sure.

"Her long service to both the Sparks and WHITE FERNS has been remarkable."