Rachael Haynes, the vice-captain of Australia, has made it clear that the forthcoming eighth season of the Women's Big Bash League will be her final appearance in international cricket.
According to Haynes, WBBL|08 will be her final game for the Sydney Thunder, while she has also played her final domestic match for New South Wales.
"In addition to being one of the best players of her time, @RachaelHaynes has made a significant contribution to our team's culture. Rach, congratulations on a fantastic career. You'll be missed, "stated the Australian Women's Cricket Team's official handle.
Haynes participated in 84 Twenty20 Internationals, 77 One-Day Internationals, and six Tests throughout the course of a more than ten-year career.
Top-order batswoman Haynes amassed nearly 3,818 runs for her country in all three forms, including 98 against England in her Test debut in 2009, two ODI centuries, and 19 half-centuries. The left-hander is a skilled fielder and has captured 13 wickets.
According to a report on cricket.com.au, Haynes served as Australia's first captain during her second spell in the team, leading the group at the 2017 ICC Women's World Cup while Meg Lanning was fighting a shoulder injury.
Haynes was chosen the Australian vice-captain in 2018 and contributed significantly to Australia's victories in the ICC Women's T20 World Cup in 2018 and 2020, the Women's World Cup victory in 2022, and the historic Commonwealth Games gold medal run in July, according to the report.
Haynes expressed her gratitude to everyone who contributed to her cricketing career.
"Without the assistance of numerous people, playing at this level is impossible. I'm incredibly appreciative of everyone who supported me along the journey, including clubs, states, coaches, family, and friends. I want to express my gratitude to my parents, Ian and Jenni, as well as my wife, Leah, for their constant support "After announcing her choice, Haynes remarked.
"I owe my continued playing to each and every teammate I've had over the course of my career. You've motivated me every day to do better. Each of you has taught me something, both on and off the field. You've pushed me as a player, guided my personal development, and most significantly, made cricket enjoyable "she said.
"Watching those around you grow is one of the best aspects about having a long career. I'm incredibly proud of how this squad has recruited athletes and fostered their growth. The success of our team has been greatly influenced by our ability to assist athletes in making smooth transitions. The greatest honour of my career has been becoming a leader in this setting, she continued.
"On behalf of everyone at Cricket Australia, I'd like to congratulate Rachael on an incredible career and also recognise the extraordinary contribution she has made off the field," said Nick Hockley, the CEO of Cricket Australia.
"Rachael's cool and collected leadership was a major factor in Australia's rise to one of the greatest sporting nations ever. She will be remembered as a legendary player.
In a statement, he was cited as saying, "Rachael has been an inspirational figure for youth learning the game and to her numerous colleagues and has played a crucial role in the promotion of cricket as a sport for women and girls, both here in Australia and around the world."