Former England and Kent cricketer Susie Wilson-Rowe has been diagnosed with stage four lung cancer. The 38-year-old has a rare type of non-small cell lung cancer known as Exon 20, which has spread to her spine and lymph nodes. The announcement has prompted messages of support from across the cricketing community.
Wilson-Rowe, who played 23 T20 Internationals (T20Is) for England, received the diagnosis earlier this year while on maternity leave following the birth of her son, Zach. She began experiencing severe pain in her ribs and scapula area for several months, which was initially suspected to be a muscle injury. However, further tests and X-rays confirmed the presence of a tumor in her left lung.
In a statement released through Kent Cricket, Wilson-Rowe said she wanted to share her personal journey to raise awareness about early cancer detection and the importance of trusting one’s instincts. “I wanted to share my story to encourage others to listen to their bodies and push for answers when something doesn’t feel right as early detection can make all the difference,” she said.
Her symptoms had intensified over time, making everyday movements increasingly difficult. The pain restricted her ability to lift her baby, cough, or even breathe comfortably. Following the diagnosis, she immediately began a combination of chemotherapy and immunotherapy treatments, which her medical team and Kent Cricket confirmed have been “successful so far.”
Kent Cricket has established a fundraising campaign to support Wilson-Rowe’s ongoing treatment and recovery. Part of the funds raised will also benefit the Exon 20 Group, a charity dedicated to researching treatment options for this specific form of lung cancer.
In their tribute, Kent acknowledged the significant impact Wilson-Rowe has made on and off the field. “Susie has given so much to cricket, as a player, coach, mentor, and friend; inspiring countless others with her strength, kindness, and relentless drive,” the statement read. The club also encouraged fans and members of the cricket community to support the initiative in recognition of her contributions to the game.
Born in London, Wilson-Rowe progressed through Kent’s player development pathway and went on to enjoy a successful domestic career. She represented the county in 79 matches over two spells, playing an instrumental role in Kent’s dominance of the women’s domestic scene. Between 2006 and 2012, she was part of five County Championship-winning sides and also contributed to Kent’s National Women’s T20 title triumph in 2011.
After retiring from cricket in 2015 to pursue other sporting interests, including hockey, Wilson-Rowe made a return to Kent in 2020. Her comeback coincided with the team’s victories in both the T20 Southeast Group and the Women’s London Championship. She later featured for London Spirit during the inaugural season of The Hundred in 2021 before retiring from professional cricket at the end of that campaign.
Wilson-Rowe’s strength and resolve continue to earn admiration across the sporting world as she undergoes treatment, with widespread support from teammates, fans, and the broader cricketing fraternity.
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