New Zealand’s World Cup-winner to retire from international cricket after Women’s T20 World Cup 2026

New Zealand’s veteran all-rounder, Suzie Bates, is going to retire from international cricket after the end of the upcoming Women’s T20 World Cup in England, which will bring an end to her 20-year career. The right-handed batter was part of their T20 World Cup 2024 winning campaign when they defeated South Africa during the final in Dubai by 32 runs.

Bates, who made a recent comeback from a quadriceps injury, will be named among the 15 members of the Women's T20 World Cup 2026 at an announcement event at her former school, Otago Girls’ High School, next Wednesday, and will depart with the squad for their bilateral series in England in early May as they aim to win successive titles. 

Suzie Bates to retire from international cricket after T20 WC 2026

Bates, who made her domestic debut at the age of 15 in 2003, played his first international game three years later. She is the leading run-getter in the women’s T20Is with 4717 runs and finds herself in the fourth position with 5914 runs in women’s ODIs.

“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.” She said in a statement.

“I have one final mission: to head to the UK - a place that holds so many special memories for me - and win another World Cup. I'm going to give every ounce of my energy to this final quest, dedicating every minute to helping this team play the kind of cricket.” The all-rounder addressed.

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The veteran was appointed the leader of the White Ferns in July 2011 and led them for nearly seven years. In 2016, she was named the leading women’s cricketer in the world by Wisden.

“To my dear ones, my family, thank you for always being there. And to my partner, Scotty, and his boys: you've shared in all the highs and the lows that this great game has brought into my life.” Bates highlighted.

New Zealand captain celebrates Bates’ international career

The Kiwi captain, Amelia Kerr, has called the batter one of the greatest cricketers of all time. Her absence will be a void for the national side in the next ODI World Cup, but they have a significant time before setting the side.

“Growing up, Suzie was my role model, and I was fortunate enough to make the team when she was captain. If you've ever been lucky enough to play alongside her, you'll know that she's one of the most selfless cricketers in the world and one of the greatest team-mates.” Kerr said.

“It's hard to find the words for a player like Suzie. She'll leave the game with a profound legacy and will continue to inspire the next generation of players for years to come, and that's something pretty special to hang your hat on.” The NZC Head of Women’s High Performance, Liz Green, reflected.

New Zealand to begin their defense against the West Indies at the Rose Bowl in Southampton on June 13.