Katherine Sciver-Brunt, the legendary England fast bowler, has announced her retirement from all forms of international cricket. The 37-year-old had already retired from Test cricket last year and had revealed in February that the T20 World Cup in South Africa would be her last involvement with the national team. Sciver-Brunt’s announcement comes as a surprise to many cricket fans who have enjoyed watching her exceptional performances over the years.
Sciver-Brunt has been an integral part of the England Women’s Cricket Team for many years and has played a vital role in the team’s success. She was a part of the Team of the Tournament in England’s 2009 Women’s Cricket World Cup win and was also named Player of the Match in the 2009 T20 World Cup final. Her brilliant bowling performance in that final helped England secure a victory over New Zealand.
In her retirement note, Katherine Sciver-Brunt said 👇#CricketTwitter pic.twitter.com/YkVEGxvBRY
— Female Cricket (@imfemalecricket) May 5, 2023
Sciver-Brunt was one of the first 18 players to hold an ECB central contract in April 2014 and played a key role in the team’s successful 2017 Women’s Cricket World Cup campaign at home. She was also at the forefront of England’s push for professionalism in women’s cricket.
With 114 wickets across a fabled 112-match career, Sciver-Brunt retires as the sixth-most prolific wicket-taker in women’s T20I cricket at an economy of under a run a ball. Her impressive record in the shortest format of the game complements her fine ODI career, having taken 170 wickets at an average of 24, placing her fifth of all time.
💔 Yet another retirement 💔
Katherine Sciver-Brunt announces her retirement from international cricket.#CricketTwitter pic.twitter.com/N8X0txiqlp
— Female Cricket (@imfemalecricket) May 5, 2023
Reflecting on her decision to retire, Sciver-Brunt said: “Well here I am, 19 years later, at the end of my international journey. I thought I’d never be able to reach this decision but I have and it’s been the hardest one of my life.” She added, “I have so much to be thankful for, cricket has given me a purpose, a sense of belonging, security, many golden memories and best friends that will last a lifetime. Of the trophies and titles I could have wished to achieve, I have reached them all, but my greatest achievement is the happiness that I have found in Nat.” (Quote sourced from ICC)
Sciver-Brunt expressed her gratitude towards the England cricket family, past and present, for making her time a special one. She also thanked the supporters, calling them “awesome” and acknowledging that without them, they wouldn’t be able to do what they love. Her biggest thanks, however, went to her family, who she described as her biggest fans and greatest support.
Sciver-Brunt will continue to play in The Hundred but has already announced her retirement from regional cricket. Her retirement marks the end of an era for the England Women’s Cricket Team, but her contribution to the team’s success will always be remembered.
Sports have always been a huge part of my life, and having played cricket professionally for my state team, I gained a deeper understanding of what it takes to succeed in the world of sports. With an eye for detail and passion for sports, I’m hoping to make a lasting impact in the sports industry.
