SYDNEY, Sept. 15 (BUS): Rachel Haines, a key member of the Australia squad that has dominated women’s cricket for a generation, called time in her 13-year international career on Thursday.
The 35-year-old has also retired from state cricket but said she will play an extra season with the Sydney Thunder in the Big Bash Women’s League, Reuters reported.
The left-footed player has scored 3,818 points in over 150 caps in all three formats since her debut in 2009 and has won six world titles with Australia.
As deputy captain since 2018, Heinz has helped Australia claim two T20 World Cup victories, and this year a 50-time World Cup win, and the inaugural Commonwealth Games gold medal.
“Rachel’s calm and assured leadership has played a key role in Australia becoming one of the most successful sports teams in history,” Nick Hockley, chief executive of Cricket Australia, said in a statement.
“She’ll come down as cool in the game.”
With captain Meg Lanning on indefinite leave of absence from the Australian side, Haynes’ retirement signals the beginning of the end for Australia’s golden generation of women’s cricketers.
Hines believes the future of Australian cricket is in good hands.
“One of the great things about having a long career is watching those around you develop,” she said.
“I am extremely proud of the way this team has brought in players and promoted their development. Being able to help players transition smoothly has been a key factor in the success of our team.
“Being a leader in this environment has been the greatest privilege of my career.”