Suzie Bates Confirmed to Retire Following 2026 Women’s T20 World Cup

New Zealand all-rounder Suzie Bates has confirmed she will step away from international cricket following the 2026 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in England, ending a career that has spanned nearly two decades. The 37-year-old is expected to be included in the squad for the tournament, which will mark her final appearance for the New Zealand women's team.

Bates, who recently recovered from a quadriceps injury, is set to rejoin the side for their upcoming tour of England before the global event. New Zealand will enter the competition as defending champions, with Bates aiming to conclude her international career on a winning note.

Reflecting on her 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.

“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.”

Career Achievements and Legacy

Bates made her international debut in 2006 after entering domestic cricket as a teenager. She leaves as one of the most accomplished players in the women’s game, currently the leading run-scorer in T20 Internationals and among the top performers in ODIs. She also captained New Zealand for several years and was named the world’s leading women’s cricketer by Wisden in 2016.

Her contributions extend beyond cricket, having represented New Zealand in basketball at the 2008 Beijing Olympics.

Tributes From Teammates and Management

Current captain Amelia Kerr described Bates as a defining figure in the team. “Growing up Suzie was my role model, and I was fortunate enough to make the team when she was captain,” Kerr said. “Her record speaks for itself… she’s paved the way for a long time in women's cricket.”

NZC Head of Women’s High Performance Development Liz Green also praised her long-term impact. “It's hard to find the words for a player like Suzie,” Green said, adding that her influence will continue to shape the next generation.