White Ferns all-rounder Nicola Browne has today announced her retirement from international cricket, ending a nine year career.
The 27 year-old retires after playing two Tests, 108 One Day Internationals and 34 Twenty20s after making her debuting in an ODI against Australia in Adelaide in February 2002.
Browne’s 33 wickets in Twenty20 cricket is the most by a New Zealander and her 77 one-day scalps put her third on the list behind Aimee Watkins (92) and Catherine Campbell (78). She departs as the fifth best international bowler and fourth best all-rounder on the ICC rankings.
Browne is also the current holder of the Phyl Blackler Cup for the bowler whose performances in women's cricket have been the most meritorious and was named player of the tournament at the ICC World Twenty20 tournament in 2010.
She will continue to play for the Northern Spirit in the Action Cricket Cup and Action Cricket Twenty20 domestic competitions.
Reflecting on her career Browne said he was honoured to represent New Zealand and is proud of what she has achieved.
“It was a tough decision but I feel that it’s the right time to step away. When I look back I feel that I’ve achieved a lot of what I set out to do and have a lot of fond memories.
“I am still passionate about cricket and keen to stay involved. My focus will be on helping and supporting others to achieve their goals and dreams and doing my part to continue to grow the women’s game in New Zealand.”
White Ferns coach Gary Stead paid tribute to Browne’s outstanding career for the White Ferns.
“Nicola has been an important member of the White Ferns for a long period of time and I take this opportunity to congratulate her on the way she represented her country.
“She developed into one of the best bowlers in women’s cricket and is an excellent role model for the other players. She is an extremely dedicated and professional athlete and that showed in the way she went about preparing and playing the game.
“Nicola is very highly thought of and very well respected by her team mates and her contribution will be missed. We wish her every success in the future.”
