Rachael Haynes calls time on illustrious career

Australia’s senior women’s national cricket team’s vice-captain Rachael Haynes has announced her decision to retire from all forms of the game once the upcoming Women’s Big Bash League season gets over. 

Haynes is set to leave the game with a total of 2,585 runs from 77 ODIs at an Average of almost 40 and 850 runs from 84 T20Is at an Average of 26.56. The southpaw also played 6 Test matches, managing a total of 383 runs at an Average of 34.81 and a top score of 98, which she made on her Test debut.

Haynes made her ODI debut in 2009 against England, but her career really took off in 2017 after she was picked for the national team following a four-year gap.

Ever since her return to the team, Haynes has been a mainstay in the Australian team and has helped them win two ODI World Cups, three T20I World Cups and a Commonwealth Games gold medal, which the Australians won earlier this year. 

Rachael Haynes spoke about her decision, stating:

“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, Chief Executive, Cricket Australia, spoke about Haynes’ contribution to Australian cricket and thanked her, stating:

“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 WBBL this season and hope she maintains a close connection to the game in coming years.“

Haynes will finish her career with the Sydney Thunders in WBBL 2022, which kicks-off from next month.