Former Netherlands Captain Heather Siegers Announces Retirement from International Cricket

Heather Diantha Jan Siegers, born on October 10, 1996, in Haarlem, Netherlands, stands as a beacon of excellence and leadership in Dutch women’s cricket. As the captain of the Netherlands women’s national cricket team, Siegers has carved out a prominent place both on and off the field through her relentless dedication, all-round skills, and inspiring influence on Dutch cricket’s growth and global recognition.

Former Netherlands Captain Heather Siegers Announces Retirement from International Cricket
Former Netherlands Captain Heather Siegers Announces Retirement from International Cricket

Siegers’ cricket journey began in her hometown, where she quickly showcased her talent as a right-handed batter and right-arm medium pacer. Rising through youth programs and domestic leagues, she demonstrated an all-rounder’s versatility that earned her selection to the national squad.

She has now declared her retirement from international cricket. She has made the decision to take a break from the sport she has been deeply involved in for years in order to focus on a new chapter, a new career, and additional education. Her new professional obligations prevent her from taking time off to play in the upcoming T20 World Cup qualifier in January 2026, despite her desire to represent the Netherlands.

Her debut in Women’s Twenty20 International cricket came in July 2018 against the United Arab Emirates, marking the start of a significant international career. From early days as a promising young cricketer, Heather soon became a leader, being named captain during the 2018 ICC Women’s World Twenty20 Qualifier and subsequently leading her side in numerous important tournaments.

Throughout her career, Heather Siegers has achieved several notable milestones and contributed substantially to Dutch cricket. She was the leading wicket-taker in both the 2019 ICC Women’s Qualifier Europe tournament and the 2019 ICC Women’s World Twenty20 Qualifier, demonstrating her impact with the ball.

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As captain, she has led the Netherlands in key competitions, including the 2021 Women’s Cricket World Cup Qualifier in Zimbabwe. Beyond statistics, Siegers is recognized as a role model who inspires young cricketers in non-traditional cricketing nations to dream big and perform on the world stage.

Heather Siegers’ international statistics up to 2025 highlight her value as a dependable all-rounder. In 5 Women’s One Day Internationals (WODIs), she has scored 105 runs with a batting average of 86.06 and a top score of 35, while contributing with 3 catches. In the T20 International format, she has been much more prolific.

In 62 WT20Is, she has scored 1081 runs at a strong average of 20.39, including the highest score of unbeaten 106. With the ball, she has taken 28 wickets with an impressive average of 18.28, a best bowling figure of 3/27, and an economy rate of 5.73. Her all-round performances have been key to the Netherlands’ competitive displays internationally.

Siegers’ leadership and performances have extended her impact beyond personal records. By captaining the Dutch team in global qualifiers and representing the sport at the highest level, she has elevated the visibility of women’s cricket in the Netherlands. Her sportsmanship, commitment, and achievements serve as testament to her role as a pioneer in Dutch cricket’s continued journey.

Heather Siegers embodies the spirit of Dutch women’s cricket through her skill, leadership, and dedication. Her career progression from a talented youth player in Haarlem to captain of the national team reflects not only individual success but also the rising status of Dutch cricket internationally.

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Her stats and exemplary performances in ODI and T20I cricket underscore her all-round capabilities and importance to her team. Though now retired, she will continue to influence cricket in the Netherlands, Siegers remains a figure of admiration and inspiration for aspiring cricketers worldwide.

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