🏏 Alyssa Healy to Retire from All Forms of Cricket After India Series

Australian women’s cricket legend Alyssa Healy has announced that she will retire from all forms of international cricket following the upcoming series against India. Bringing the curtain down on one of the most influential careers in the history of the women’s game. The India series will mark Healy’s final appearance in Australian colours, closing an era defined by leadership, innovation, and match-winning brilliance.

Healy, who has played a key role in Australia’s supremacy of women’s cricket for more than ten years. Affirmed that the choice was made. After careful consideration of her physical demands, long-term goals, and the desire to step aside at a time. When the team is well placed for the future. Known for redefining the role of a wicketkeeper-batter. Healy changed the way the game is played with her aggressive strokeplay at the top of the order and fearless approach in big matches.

Alyssa Healy

Healy has been a member of several World Cup-winning teams since making her debut for her country in 2010. She has made significant contributions in finals and high-stress matches. She is regarded as one of the best players the sport has ever produced thanks to her record-breaking achievements in ODIs and T20Is. As well as her deft glovework behind the posts.

As captain and senior leader, Healy also played a crucial role in mentoring the next generation of Australian cricketers. Teammates and coaches have frequently praised her competitive spirit, tactical awareness, and ability to lift the team during challenging moments. Her presence on the field has been synonymous with Australia’s winning culture.

The upcoming India series will therefore carry special significance, offering fans a final opportunity to witness Healy’s trademark energy and passion. Cricket Australia is expected to honour her contributions during the series. While tributes from across the global cricketing community continue to pour in.

As Alyssa Healy prepares to step away from the international stage. Her legacy as a trailblazer, leader, and champion of women’s cricket is firmly secured. The game moves forward, but her influence will remain for generations to come.

Usman Khawaja to Retire After Emotional SCG Test

Australian batting stalwart Usman Khawaja has announced that he will retire from international cricket following the fifth Ashes Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), marking an emotional end to a career that began at the same venue more than a decade ago.

The 39-year-old left-hander will play his final Test in Sydney, bringing his journey full circle after making his Test debut at the SCG in 2011. Over the years, Khawaja established himself as one of Australia’s most dependable top-order batters. Especially in the latter phase of his career where he enjoyed a remarkable resurgence.

Khawaja finishes with over 6,200 Test runs, including 16 centuries, and earned widespread respect for his calm temperament, technical excellence, and leadership within the dressing room. His performances in challenging overseas conditions and his dominance at home made him a key pillar of Australia’s Test batting lineup.

Beyond statistics, Khawaja’s legacy extends off the field. As the first Pakistan-born Muslim to represent Australia in Test cricket. He became a symbol of diversity and inclusion, often speaking openly about identity, equality, and staying true to one’s beliefs in elite sport.

With the SCG set to host his farewell, Australian cricket prepares to bid goodbye to a player whose career was defined by resilience, class, and quiet determination.

Chris Woakes Announces Retirement from International Cricket 🏏

England all-rounder Chris Woakes has officially announced his retirement from international cricket. Bringing the curtains down on a remarkable career that spanned over a decade.

Chris Woakes, known for his swing bowling and reliable lower-order batting, represented England across all three formats and played a pivotal role in some of the team’s most memorable victories. A World Cup winner in 2019, he was often regarded as one of England’s most dependable all-rounders. Delivering consistently with both bat and ball.

During his career, Woakes claimed crucial wickets with the new ball. Excelled in English conditions, and provided depth to the batting order with several match-saving contributions. His calm presence in pressure situations earned him respect from teammates and fans alike.

Reflecting on his decision, Woakes expressed gratitude towards the England & Wales Cricket Board (ECB). His teammates, family, and supporters for standing by him throughout his journey. While stepping away from the international stage. He is expected to continue playing in domestic cricket and franchise leagues around the world.

🏆 Career Highlights

2019 ICC Cricket World Cup Winner – Woakes played a crucial role in England’s historic triumph, particularly in the semi-final against Australia. Where he dismantled the top order with the new ball.

Ashes Performances – His ability to trouble Australian batters in English conditions made him one of the go-to bowlers in Ashes contests.

All-Round Contributions – Beyond his bowling, Woakes often chipped in with handy runs down the order, including a Test century against India at Lord’s.

Amit Mishra declares his retirement from the game in all its forms.

At the end of a professional career that lasted more than 20 years, veteran legspinner Amit Mishra announced his retirement from all forms of cricket.

The 42-year-old Amit Mishra finished his final international match in 2017, but he continued to play in both domestic and IPL cricket, most recently for the Lucknow Super Giants in 2024.

He finishes with 156 international wickets from 22 Test matches, 36 ODIs, and 10 T20Is for India. Mishra made his Test debut in Mohali in 2008, taking five wickets against Australia to honor the occasion.

Throughout the IPL, Mishra proved himself as one of the most reliable spin options for all teams. He is one of the competition’s all-time top wicket-takers with 174 in 162 games. With the Delhi Daredevils (2008), Deccan Chargers (2011), and Sunrisers Hyderabad (2013), he also has the exceptional record of being the first bowler to have three IPL hat-tricks.

Mishra cited injuries and a desire to create room for the next generation when he announced his decision. “I am announcing my retirement from cricket today, after 25 years. Cricket has been my first passion, my teacher, and my biggest source of happiness.

There have been countless feelings along the way, including pride, adversity, education, and love. I owe a debt of gratitude to the Haryana Cricket Association, the BCCI, my coaches, support staff, teammates, and above everyone else my supporters, whose encouragement and faith kept me going at every turn.

Mitchell Starc announced he will retire from T20Is.

Mitchell Starc wishes to play Test cricket. Particularly as Australia is packed with work from the latter part of 2019 and the 2027 ODI World Cup. Starc debuted in T20I in 2012 and has appeared in 65 matches until now. Mitchell Starc was a member of the Australian team that won the 2021 T20 World Cup. His recent T20I was in 2024, and he retired six months prior to the following T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka. He is now ranked second-highest wicket-taker in T20Is for Australia. With his best being 4 wickets for 20 against the West Indies in 2022.

Starc declared, “My primary priority has always been and will remain Test cricket.”.

I’ve enjoyed all the games I’ve played, particularly the 2021 World Cup, not for winning, but for the team and the wonderful experience we shared.

Australia is set to have a lot of Test matches lined up from mid-2026.

These are a home series against Bangladesh, a tour of South Africa, a four-game series against New Zealand, five Tests in India in January 2027, a special match against England at the MCG for its 150th anniversary, and the Ashes series towards the end of 2027.

During October and November 2027, South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia will stage the ODI World Cup, and Australia will be the champions.

Starc feels quitting T20Is is the best decision for his health and being ready to his potential for the 2027 ODI World Cup, the Ashes, and the Indian Tests.

It also provides the bowling unit with time to prepare.

Mitchell Starc was famous for his yorker and new-ball swing.

Though Australia have won 14 of their previous 17 games since Starc last appeared in a T20I, his pace is not easily replaceable as the team heads to the forthcoming World Cup in India and Sri Lanka.

George Bailey commented, “I don’t think we’ll find someone swinging the new ball at 145 kph.”.

A like-for-like substitute may not necessarily be available. He has worked with the new ball and bowled vital overs when it really counted.

So, have we demonstrated the sort of players who can replace him?

Nathan Ellis has been a regular in the T20 side. Ben Dwarshuis is great. Xavier Bartlett and Sean Abbott have also gotten their chance. It could be just a matter of a slight position adjustment.

I believe his record stands for itself.

I’m happiest that he’ll be playing one-day and Test cricket for a long period of time.

When Australia named their most recent T20I squad for the three-match series against New Zealand early last month in October, Starc made the revelation.

Cameron Green can become a returnee to bowling by missing out on the trip to feature for Western Australia in the Sheffield Shield.

Nathan Ellis will be absent when his first child with his wife, Connie, is born.

Matt Short, who was absent from the last two series against the West Indies and South Africa with a side injury, has returned. Mitchell Owen, concussed in Darwin last month, also returns. Marcus Stoinis, who played in the Hundred and was not picked for the last two series. Returns having come to terms with the selectors regarding his availability.

Australia T20I team vs New Zealand:

Mitchell Marsh (captain), Sean Abbott, Xavier Bartlett, Tim David, Ben Dwarshuis, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Matt Kuhnemann, Glenn Maxwell, Mitchell Owen, Matthew Short, Marcus Stoinis, and Adam Zampa.

Proteas Boost: Dane van Niekerk Ends Retirement Ahead of CWC 2025

In a social media post on August 25 (Monday), former South African captain Dane van Niekerk declared that she had withdrawn her retirement from the game. During the 2024–25 season, the 32-year-old made her comeback to domestic cricket for Western Province. She was later added to the 20-member extended group for the August 25–September 1 pre-World Cup training camp in Durban.

“I’m happy to declare that I’ve made the decision to not retire from international cricket. The absence has made me realize how much I’ve missed representing my nation. I’m determined to do all in my power to have that chance again,” she posted on Instagram.

The former South Africa captain resigned in 2023 at the age of 29. After failing to satisfy the fitness standards needed to be selected for a home T20 World Cup squad. For the tournament, Sune Luus assumed the role of captain.

Van Niekerk played 194 games for South Africa, including 1 Test, 86 T20Is, and 107 ODIs. Throughout her international career, she scored 4074 runs and claimed 204 wickets. Additionally, she captained South Africa for 50 ODIs and 30 T20Is, winning 29 and 15 games, respectively.

During the Covid era, she suffered numerous injuries despite being a stalwart in South Africa. She missed the most of the 2020 season due to a lower back ailment. She was unable to compete in the 2022 ICC World Cup in New Zealand because of an ankle issue.

In addition to expressing regret to Cricket South Africa (CSA) for how she handled her retirement. Van Niekerk, now 32, expressed her desire to play for South Africa once more. I genuinely apologize to Cricket South Africa and the cricket community for my retirement. I am incredibly appreciative of the chance to perhaps showcase my abilities on a global level once more in the future.

South Africa will travel to Pakistan.

As a final preparation for the ODI World Cup in India and Sri Lanka, South Africa will choose the side that will fly to Lahore for a three-match ODI series against hosts Pakistan from September 16 to 22. After the Durban training camp.

Laura Wolvaardt, Marizanne Kapp, and Chloe Tryon. Who are all presently competing in the Hundred Competition, are not included in the 20-player camp.

South Africa Women’s training squad:

Tazmin Brits, Nadine de Klerk, Annerie Dercksen, Lara Goodall, Anneke Bosch, Ayanda Hlubi, Sinalo Jafta, Ayabonga Khaka, Masabata Klaas, Sune Luus, Eliz-Mari Marx, Karabo Meso, Nonkululeko Mlaba, Seshnie Naidu, Luyanda Nzuza, Tumi Sekhukhune, Nondumiso Shangase, Miane Smit, Faye Tunnicliffe, and Dane van Niekerk

🇮🇳 Spinner Gouher Sultana Announces Retirement from All Forms of Cricket

In a significant development for Indian women’s cricket, left-arm spinner Gouher Sultana has officially announced her retirement from all forms of the game. The Hyderabad-born cricketer, known for her accurate spin bowling and consistent performances, leaves behind a career that inspired many young girls to take up the sport.

A Notable Career in Blue

Gouher Sultana made her international debut for India in 2008 and quickly established herself as a reliable slow left-arm orthodox bowler. Across her career, she represented India in both ODIs and T20Is, playing against some of the toughest opposition sides in world cricket.

Her ability to extract turn and maintain a tight line and length made her a dependable option in the middle overs. Sultana’s spell of accuracy often broke partnerships and kept batters under pressure. She was also one of the few Indian women cricketers from the South Zone to gain prominence during the late 2000s, representing Hyderabad on the domestic circuit with distinction.

Career Highlights

  • One Day Internationals (ODIs): Gouher played 50 ODIs for India, claiming crucial wickets at an impressive economy rate.
  • T20 Internationals (T20Is): She featured in 37 T20Is, contributing to India’s rise in women’s cricket during the format’s early years.
  • She was part of India’s squads in multiple ICC tournaments, including the Women’s Cricket World Cup and the T20 World Cup, where her experience proved valuable.

One of her standout moments came against Sri Lanka Women in 2010, where she delivered a match-winning spell that showcased her control and temperament under pressure.

Domestic Stalwart

At the domestic level, Sultana was a mainstay for Hyderabad, guiding her side with both performances and mentorship. Her consistency in the Women’s Senior One-Day and T20 tournaments often made her a top wicket-taker for her state. She also represented the India Red and India Blue teams in Challenger Trophy tournaments, further underlining her stature as one of the finest spinners of her era.

An Inspiration for Many

Gouher Sultana’s journey is particularly inspiring given the challenges faced by women cricketers in India during the 2000s, when resources and visibility were limited. Her rise from Hyderabad to donning the India jersey was a story of perseverance, discipline, and passion for the sport.

Tributes have poured in from teammates, coaches, and fans, acknowledging her service to Indian cricket. Several younger players from Hyderabad have credited Sultana as a role model who paved the way for women cricketers from the region to dream bigger.

Looking Ahead

In her retirement note, Gouher expressed gratitude to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA), her teammates, coaches, and fans who stood by her throughout her journey. While she has hung up her boots, reports suggest she is likely to continue contributing to the game in the capacity of a coach or mentor, ensuring her experience benefits the next generation of cricketers.

Conclusion

Gouher Sultana may not have always been in the spotlight, but her contribution to Indian women’s cricket has been steady and impactful. As she steps away from the field, her legacy will live on in the form of the players she inspired and the path she carved for future talents.

Andre Russell will retire from international cricket, After the Jamaica T20Is

Following the first two Twenty20 Internationals against Australia at his home stadium, Sabina Park in Jamaica, West Indies all-rounder Andre Russell will announce his retirement from international cricket.

Russell, 37, presently has 84 caps and has only played in T20Is since 2019. He will retire seven months before the next T20 World Cup, which will take place in February 2026 in India and Sri Lanka. In addition, he played 56 ODIs and one Test.

There are no words to describe what that meant. “One of the proudest achievements of my life has been representing the West Indies,” Russell stated. I never imagined I would reach this level when I was younger, but the more you play and develop a passion for the sport, the more you realize what you are capable of. I wanted to make an impression in the maroon colors and serve as an inspiration to others, so this motivated me to improve.

In addition to performing for the West Indies, I enjoy performing at home in front of my loved ones, which allows me to show off my skills and give better performances. I want to be a role model for the upcoming generation of Caribbean cricket players and end my international career on a strong note.

Russell will leave international cricket in less than two months, making him the second well-known West Indies player to do so after Nicholas Pooran. It is believed that Russell’s announcement caught the West Indies’ selectors off guard.

In 2012, Russell was a member of the West Indies team that won the T20 World Cup. In 2016, he took the new ball and got rid of Alex Hales in the second over in Kolkata.

According to coach Daren Sammy, Andre has always been a hard competitor and the epitome of professionalism. His will to compete and win for the West Indies has never faltered. Whether I was captaining him or am currently coaching him. I hope he continues to inspire future generations and wish him luck on his next journey.

Andre Russell

Russell will be replaced by Matthew Forde in the roster for the St Kitts leg of the match versus Australia.

In the meantime, 23-year-old Jediah Blades and adolescent Jewel Andrew received their first calls-ups to the West Indies T20I team. Andrew became the youngest West Indian and the second youngest player overall to score a fifty in a major T20 league in the 2024 CPL at the age of 17 years and 266 days. In Guyana’s current Global Super League (GSL), Andrew plays for the Guyana Amazon Warriors.

Blades has not yet participated in the CPL. But he made an impression with the new ball at the first West Indies breakout league. A competition recently established to find up-and-coming talent in the area. In addition to Rovman Powell, who missed the GSL for the Dubai Capitals. Shai Hope will continue to captain the team.

“We have strategic plans and goals that are in line with winning the T20 World Cup in 2026,” Sammy stated. As a team, we will continue to refine our style and brand in preparation for the World Cup. We have continuity in the roster from the previous series.

As we build momentum for next year’s World Cup with our exciting and dynamic bunch of players. We aim to get back to our prior form at home, where we lost both of our previous T20 series. We start against Australia.

West Indies squad

Andre Russell, Shai Hope (c), Jewel Andrew, Jediah Blades, Roston Chase, Matthew Forde, Shimron Hetmyer, Jason Holder, Akeal Hosein, Alzarri Joseph, Brandon King, Evin Lewis, Gudakesh Motie, Rovman Powell, Sherfane Rutherford, and Romario Shepherd

Sophie Devine will retire from ODIs after the World Cup in 2025.

Sophie Devine, a mainstay of New Zealand will be leaving the ODI format after this year’s World Cup. She will therefore choose to sign a casual playing contract for the 2025–2026 season, New Zealand Cricket said on Tuesday, June 17.

In both ODIs and T20Is, the 35-year-old has enjoyed a stellar career for New Zealand. Over the course of her 152 appearances for the national team the second most after Suzie Bates. She has risen from her initial position as a No. 11 in 50-over cricket to become one of the most crucial hitters in the team. She has hit 16 fifties and eight hundred, second only to Bates. In addition to his fourth-highest 3990 runs. Devine has taken 107 wickets. Which is second only to Lea Tahuhu.

In 2020, the all-round player was named New Zealand’s permanent captain last year. They won the T20 World Cup under her direction. In the last two tournaments. They have not advanced past the group stages in the ODI format.

Sophie Devine

Devine stated, “It feels like the right time for me to start stepping away,” in reference to her choice. “I consider myself extremely lucky to have had NZC’s help in resolving the issue. So that I can continue to support the White Ferns. Before I leave, I want everyone to know that I’m committed and focused on giving this group my all. I’m eager to contribute over the next six to nine months. Am quite pleased about the direction this young group is taking.”

According to Liz Green, the Head of Women’s High Performance at NZC. Devine’s choice to sign a casual deal will allow another athlete to sign a full contract. As the 17-member core contracts list will be revealed tomorrow.

Green stated that Sophie has served the White Ferns for almost 20 years, and NZC is completely in support of her efforts to find greater balance at this point in her career.

We are happy that we were able to come to a deal that allows her to continue playing for the White Ferns on an as-needed basis while providing room for another player to sign a full contract.

Glenn Maxwell announces his retirement from ODI

In order to fully focus on T20 cricket, Australian all-rounder Glenn Maxwell has declared his retirement from ODI cricket. Maxwell played in 149 One-Day Internationals (ODIs) between 2012 and 2025. Amassing 3990 runs and taking 77 wickets. In 2015 and 2023, he played for Australia’s World Cup-winning teams.

Maxwell was a powerful hitter who averaged 33.81 runs per game with a strike rate of 126.70. In the 2023 World Cup, he scored an undefeated 201 against Afghanistan. Which is considered to be his best ODI performance to date and maybe the best innings ever played. He recorded 23 half-centuries and three more hundred. In his bowling career, he picked four four-fers and was a good offspinner. In addition to being an excellent fielder. He has 91 catches in the format.

According to Cricket Australia, Maxwell made the choice in preparation of the 2026 T20 World Cup. Which will be played in India and Sri Lanka. Maxwell’s goal to concentrate on the Big Bash League and other international obligations was also mentioned by the board.

“I think back to right at the start I was picked ahead of my time and out of the blue,” Maxwell stated, looking back on his career and retirement decision. Being able to play a few games for Australia made me feel proud. I assumed I would only experience it.

I’ve been lucky to experience the highs and lows of being dropped, being brought back, participating in a couple World Cups, and being a member of some outstanding teams ever since.

Glenn Maxwell

Earlier this year, Maxwell played his final ODI match against India in the Champions Trophy. Maxwell will not be participating in the current IPL due to a leg injury.

My body’s reaction to the situation led me to believe that. I was failing the team in some way. I had a pleasant talk with the Chair of Selectors, George Bailey. He responded on the Final Word Podcast when I asked him what he thought might happen in the future.

It’s time to start setting things up so that people in my position can try their hand at it and take over the role, I told him, since I don’t think I’ll make it. The 2027 World Cup came up. In order to keep that position, I hope they have adequate lead time.

“I used to say that if I still felt like I could play, I wouldn’t give up my place. I didn’t want to play purely for selfish motives and wait for a few series.

“They have the best view of the lineup heading into the next World Cup because they are heading in such a clear way. I am aware of how crucial that preparation is.

Former captain and current chair of selectors George Bailey praised Maxwell on his career. Glenn Maxwell who was instrumental in two ODI World Cup victories. He will go down as one of the most thrilling performers in one-day cricket. He is incredibly talented and skilled by nature. His field enthusiasm, missed ball abilities, and longevity have all been outstanding. His passion and commitment to representing Australia is yet another remarkable feature.

He still has a lot to give Australia in the T20 format, thankfully. If all goes according to plan, he will play a key role in the upcoming year as we prepare for the World Cup in early 2019.