New Zealand cricketer Lauren Down has announced her retirement at the age of 30 after a 15-year career. Down, who played 35 ODIs and 13 T20Is for the White Ferns since her debut in 2018, expressed gratitude for her time with the team. She highlighted her fondness for being part of the White Ferns group and her excitement to support them from the sidelines.
Down, who debuted for her hometown Hearts in 2011, played a significant role in Auckland cricket, making 202 appearances for the team. She acknowledged the support of Auckland Cricket, her coaches, and teammates in her cricket journey. Down also ended her career as the Hearts’ third all-time leading T20 run scorer and the fourth all-time leading List A run scorer.
Known for her strong domestic form, Down contributed to five successful Hallyburton Johnstone Shield campaigns with the Hearts. She missed out on the 2022 ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup and the Commonwealth Games due to a thumb injury but made a successful return for the West Indies tour in September 2022. Down decided to skip a central contract for the 2023-24 season to welcome her first child before returning to the squad for future tours.
A versatile player, Down was recognized for her fielding skills and represented the Perth Scorchers in the Women’s Big Bash League. New Zealand head coach Ben Sawyer praised Down for her dedication and contributions to the team, emphasizing her values on and off the field. Sawyer commended Down for balancing motherhood and a swift return to international cricket, thanking her for her commitment to the game.
