Suzie Bates Set To Quit International Cricket After Women’s T20 World Cup 2026

Suzie Bates will retire after the Women’s T20 World Cup 2026, aiming to end her iconic career on a title-winning high.

New Zealand cricket stalwart Suzie Bates has confirmed that she will retire from international cricket following the Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 in England, bringing an end to a celebrated career spanning more than two decades.

The former captain, who recently made a comeback after recovering from a quadriceps injury, is likely to be included in the upcoming 15-member squad. The team is also scheduled to tour England in early May for an ODI and T20I series as part of their preparations for the marquee event.

A Legendary Career Filled With Records and Leadership

Bates’ journey began at the age of 15 when she debuted in domestic cricket in 2003 before making her international debut in 2006.

Over the years, she has become one of the most iconic figures in women’s cricket, currently holding the record as the leading run-scorer in Women’s T20Is with 4717 runs, while also ranking fourth in the all-time ODI run charts with 5964 runs. She also captained New Zealand from July 2011 for nearly seven years, playing a key role in shaping the team’s growth and success during her tenure.

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Reflecting on her long journey, Bates said, “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.”

Ending Career on a High

Heading into the 2026 T20 World Cup as defending champions, Bates is determined to finish her international career on a high note.

She expressed her ambition to deliver one last memorable performance for her country, stating, “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 we, and our country, can be proud of.”

She also took the opportunity to thank those who supported her throughout her journey, adding, “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. I would also like to pay special tribute to the staff and coaches who have given so much to women’s cricket over many years, often with little recognition or reward.”

Beyond her cricketing achievements, Bates has also represented New Zealand in basketball, notably appearing for the Tall Ferns at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, highlighting her versatility as an elite athlete.