Nicola Browne, who holds the Northern Districts female record for most matches, most runs and most wickets will retire from domestic and international cricket following this weekend’s round of matches at Seddon Park in Hamilton.
With 131 one-day and 43 Twenty20 matches Browne has been an iconic figure in the Northern Spirit uniform. She has also played 2 Test matches, 125 One-Day Internationals and 54 Twenty20 matches for New Zealand in a career that spans well over a decade.
Northern Districts Chairman Martin Bradley said that “it would be hard to mount an argument against Nicola being ND’s best ever player.”
“She has been a significant figure for ND and New Zealand with both bat and ball, regularly dominating in both disciplines and has also been a shining light for younger players. We wish her well in her future endeavours and trust that she will keep a strong involvement in cricket at some level” concluded Bradley.
Browne realised over the Christmas break that the time was right “for new experiences in life and opportunities to grow and learn in different environments.”
“I am very grateful for all that cricket has provided and it has certainly helped shape who I am over the past 14 years” said Browne.
“I publically would like to acknowledge all those that have played a part in my cricketing career, I have been blessed to work with some amazing people” she continued.
“I wish both Northern Districts and New Zealand Cricket all the best in driving the women’s game forward. In the future I would like to return in a different role to contribute my passion and knowledge to women’s cricket” Browne concluded.
Browne presently works in the Major Events team for H3, Hamilton City Councils events unit, on the ICC Cricket World Cup 2015 and FIFA U-20 World Cup New Zealand 2015.
Browne has been contracted to the ACT Meteors in Canberra as part of the Australia domestic competition for the past two seasons and is yet to make a decision on extending this arrangement.
Nicola can be seen playing this weekend at Seddon Park versus Canterbury on Friday (Twenty20 from 4pm), and Saturday and Sunday (50 over matches).
