New Zealand spinner Eden Carson delivered one of the most emotional tributes following Suzie Bates’ announcement that she will retire from international cricket after the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026, praising the White Ferns legend for the impact she has had both on and off the field.
Bates confirmed this week that the T20 World Cup 2026 in England will mark the final chapter of a remarkable international career that began in 2006. Over two decades, the all-rounder has built one of the finest resumes in women’s cricket, becoming New Zealand’s leading run-scorer across formats and one of the most respected figures in the global game.
Among the most touching tributes came from Carson, who described Bates as the inspiration behind her own cricket journey. In a heartfelt Instagram post, the young spinner wrote “You’ve been my idol for as long as I can remember, my favourite player, my hero, and the person I’ve always looked up to. You’re the reason I first picked up a bat and ball, and a big reason for why I’ve continued to play.”
Carson also reflected on how Bates had been present throughout key stages of her development, from junior cricket to the international stage. She recalled Bates visiting St John’s, coaching her at Under-15 level, later playing alongside her for the Otago Sparks, and eventually sharing a dressing room in the White Ferns setup. That progression, Carson suggested, showed the unique role Bates has played in nurturing the next generation while continuing to perform at the highest level herself.
Bates retires as one of the most decorated players in women’s cricket history. In 181 WODIs, she has scored 5,964 runs at an average of 38.23, including 13 centuries and 37 fifties, placing her among the most prolific batters the format has seen. Her highest ODI score of 168 remains one of the standouts knocks in New Zealand’s history.
In T20 Internationals (T20Is), Bates leaves as the leading run-scorer in women’s T20Is, with 4,717 runs in 181 matches, striking at 108.56 with one century and 28 half-centuries. Her unbeaten 124 remains one of the great T20I innings.
Carson’s tribute, however, focused as much on Bates the person as Bates the player. She wrote “What you’ve achieved in your career is incredible, and something most people could only dream of. But what’s always meant the most to me is who you are beyond the runs, the milestones, and the records.”
The message captured a theme echoed by many within New Zealand cricket since the retirement announcement, that Bates’ legacy extends well beyond statistics. Her leadership, humility and longevity helped shape the White Ferns through a transformative period for women’s cricket.
Carson added that Bates had consistently supported those around her, saying she helped others feel they belonged and led with kindness and strength. She also thanked the veteran for believing in her during moments of self-doubt. Closing the tribute, Carson wrote “You’ve inspired not just me, but so many others, and your legacy will live on in all of us who were lucky enough to learn from you and share the field with you. You’ve given so much to this game, and to the people in it.”
Bates now has one final mission before stepping away from the international stage, helping New Zealand defend their Women’s T20 World Cup crown. But regardless of what happens in England, her legacy as a trailblazer, match-winner and mentor is already secure.
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