England woman off-spinner Danielle Hazell retires from international cricket

England’s woman off-break bowler Danielle Hazell has decided to call it quits from international cricket and backed her decision saying she was ready to move on in life. The 30-year-old Durham-born made her international debut in November 2009 when she played the Windies and in almost a decade since then, the cricketer has played three Tests, 53 ODIs and 85 T20Is claiming 146 scalps in all.

For the Durham all-rounder, cementing a place in the England’s squad was not very easy. When she was called up for the national duty, Hazell was the sole female player in the Durham Senior League but that hardship did her a favour and she learnt her skills the hard way. But she was straight to put it across that she made a place in the cricket team not because she is a woman but because she had the ability to deliver. Although she had to prove her worth continuously at every level.

The game didn’t disappoint the talented cricketer as she went on. Hazell has been a part of teams that won three Ashes and two World Cups and also captained her side in two matches.

“There have been some amazing highlights – some really special moments. I owe a lot to the game,” Hazell was quoted as saying by ECB.co.uk.

“I feel 100 per cent happy with my decision to move on from playing international cricket and I’m really excited to find out what the next chapter holds in store for me.”

She also hinted at having a stint with coaching as she said she would want to pay the game back in terms of time and energy.

Hazell conceded that playing international cricket for almost a decade takes a toll on one’s body and mind and she felt it was the best time to stop and also move on. She said she will miss her team-mates, the England jersey and the playing conditions but backed her decision.

Hazell will also be remembered for leadership qualities

England coach Mark Robinson said the departing player can rightly feel proud about her international career and called her one of the best off-spinners in the world. He also said that besides her playing abilities, Hazell will be remembered for her leadership qualities and character.

Managing Director of Women’s Cricket Clare Connor thanked Hazell for her years of commitment and service to the England women’s team.

Hazell played her last game for Adelaide Strikers Women in the Women’s Big Bash League in Australia against Perth Scorchers on January 13.

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