Rachel Haynes calls it quits from international cricket

Ace Australia women cricketer Rachel Haynes surprised everyone with her sudden retirement from international cricket with immediate effect on Thursday. The 35 year old batter, who first appeared on the international scene in 2009, went on to represent the national side in 6 tests , 77 ODIs and 84 T20Is

With career aggregates of 2585 in ODIs and 850 in T20Is, Haynes is the ninth highest run getter for Australia in both the limited overs format. A vital cog in Australia’s dominant run in international cricket following their exit from the 2017 World Series, Haynes served as Meg Lanning’s deputy since 2018- a four year period in which the women in yellow won two T20 World Series, one 50–over world series and the CWG gold medal. 

An attacking top order batter, Haynes adeptly tackled the challenges emerging at different batting positions slightly lower down the order, particularly in T20Is. While she narrowly missed out on a century in her test debut (falling on 98), she went on to smash two in ODIs, with the highest score of 13 against England in the 2022 Women’s World Series. Not only was she an excellent batter, but also a standout fielder and a more than handy bowler. 

Speaking on the sudden retirement, 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."

Nick Hockley, Cricket Australia's Chief Executive Officer, further 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 Women’s Aus T20 League this season and hope she maintains a close connection to the game in coming years."

For now, Haynes has also confirmed that she has also played her last domestic match for NSW, while Women Aus-T20 League -8 will be her last for Sydney.