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The England Women’s National Cricket Team cricketer Kate Cross has announced her retirement from professional cricket. Cross was representing Sunrisers Leeds (Women) in the Hundred 2026 season. She was the finalist of the 2026 edition of the competition as her franchise lost in the final to Trent Rockets by 8 wickets in the final on August 16, 2026.
Cross on Friday stated that she will end her career at the end of the season. She was not part of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 squad for the Three Lions. She did not have a central contract with England, and missing out on national selection, she played on for one year with Lancashire before taking the decision on her career.
Kate Cross announces retirement
While sharing on her social media account, Kate Cross mentioned that this summer will be her last as a professional cricketer, and it is very difficult for her to call an end to a glorious 12-year career. She thanked everyone who helped her become a cricketer.
Cross stated, while writing on her Instagram, "This summer is going to be my last playing professional cricket. It's incredibly hard to imagine ever saying goodbye to playing the sport that has been such a huge part of my life and shaped me into the person I am today. But, the final chapter is in sight."
"I feel so fortunate to have had the opportunity to play the game I love professionally and get to do it at the highest level. But I'm even more fortunate to have met the people I have along the way. I have memories that will last a lifetime which I'll forever be thankful for."
Kate Cross's journey
Cross made her senior county debut for Lancashire aged just 13 in 2005, and in the following year she became the first female cricketer accepted into the Lancashire Academy. She had a long wait before finally making her debut for England.
She further added, "I'm so grateful for the journey I have had in cricket and although I have a few more games to play and so many things I would like to say, for now I'd just like to thank each and every one of you who has supported me and made it all possible."
Kate Cross's career
In 2013, against the West Indies Women’s National Cricket Team, she played her first game. In her debut game, she won the Player of the Match, picking 4/51.
Kate Cross made her debut in Test cricket in the Women’s Ashes in 2014, where she bowled excellently with the new ball and showcased her prowess, finishing with figures of 6 for 70 in the match and helping England win the match at Perth.
The 34-year-old became the eighth player to reach 100 ODI wickets for England in 2025, making her among the most prolific wicket-takers in the history of the women's game for the country. She was also the No.2 bowler in the world in ODI cricket for Women in 2024. More to follow.....
