White Fern Watson announces retirement

White Fern Helen Watson today announced her retirement from cricket.

Watson, 36, played 61 ODIs and eight international Twenty20 matches in a nine-year international career.

Her debut series against Australia in 1999 helped the White Ferns to a Rose Bowl series win. The following year saw her help the home team to victory in the 2000 World Cup at Lincoln, claiming two run outs in the final.

In ODIs, she took 50 wickets at an average of 23.14 and an economy rate of 3.17, and accrued 568 runs. She represented State Canterbury Magicians (1998-2000 and 2006-2008) and State Auckland Hearts (2000-2006) as an all-rounder, winning seven national titles.

Watson said: “I have gained immense satisfaction and enjoyment playing cricket at all levels, with the pinnacle being my years playing for the White Ferns.

“The time is now right for me to hang up my boots and although I will no longer play the game there is no doubt that I will remain a keen supporter of cricket in the future.

“I would also like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has supported and encouraged me throughout my cricket career. It has been a fantastic journey.”

Catherine Campbell, Women’s Cricket Manager, New Zealand Cricket, added: “Helen has made a terrific contribution to the White Ferns throughout her career.

“Her experience and talents will be missed and we wish her all the best in the future.”


Career statistics
Playing style: Right-hand bat/Right-arm medium pace

White Ferns (1999-2008)
61 ODI matches
Batting: 46 innings 568 runs at 15.77 (HS 115*)
Bowling: 57 wickets at 23.14, BBI: 3/14

State League (1998-2008)
99 matches (State Auckland Hearts/State Canterbury Magicians)
Batting: 84 innings: 1873 runs at 37.46 (HS 101)
Bowling: 128 wickets at 20.47 – BBI 5/18