Amy Satterthwaite retires from international cricket after contract snub

It’s the end of an era as New Zealand women’s most-capped ODI player, Amy Satterthwaite, has brought curtains to her international career. The talismanic cricketer made the major announcement on Thursday (May 26) as New Zealand Cricket didn’t offer her a central contract for the upcoming season. Although the 35-year-old believes she has much more to offer to the national team, Satterthwaite respects NZC’s decision to look forward.

Making her international debut in 2007, Satterthwaite didn’t take long in becoming a vital part of the national team. Her ability to anchor the innings in the middle overs alongside scoring quick runs when required made her a great asset. Overall, the southpaw smashed 4639 and 1784 runs in 145 ODIs and 111 T20Is as well. Not to forget, Satterthwaite also took 76 wickets in international cricket with her handy off-breaks.

I’m disappointed not to be receiving a contract: Amy Satterthwaite

In fact, her figures of 6/17 in a T20I game against England are still the best figures by a New Zealander in the format. Meanwhile, Satterthwaite admitted being saddened with the decision but she’s overall pleased with her journey. “It is with a degree of sadness that I announce my retirement from international cricket. It has been a tough few days after learning of NZC’s decision to head in a new direction and contract some younger cricketers,” said Satterthwaite.

“I’m disappointed not to be receiving a contract and believe I still had more to offer, however, I respect NZC’s decision and I wish the White Ferns all the best as they embark on an exciting winter of cricket, including the Commonwealth Games,” she added. Satterthwaite, who served as New Zealand captain in 2018 and 2019, took a brief break from the game for the birth of her first child. She returned to action the following year.

“I’m immensely proud of my journey with the White Ferns and especially taking the time away to give birth to our daughter, Grace, before returning to play international cricket. I didn’t know if I would ever make it back to the top level and I hope my story can inspire other mums and mums-to-be that it is possible to follow your career dreams and start a family,” stated the talismanic cricketer further.