Australia vice-captain Rachael Haynes has announced her retirement from international cricket just a few months out from the Twenty20 World Cup in South Africa.
The 35-year-old was out of the international set-up for four years before returning in time to step in as captain during the 2017 World Cup while regular skipper Meg Lanning battled injury. She also captained the side in the 2017 Women's Ashes series.
Haynes has remained a veteran presence in the all-conquering Australian women's team since then, winning the T20 World Cup in 2018 and 2020, and adding the 50-over World Cup and Commonwealth Games gold earlier this year.
The top-order batter will play this summer's Women's Big Bash League season with Sydney Thunder, but will not be available for selection in February's T20 World Cup squad.
She thanked her parents, Ian and Jenni, and partner Leah for their support during her career.
"To all the teammates across my career, you are the reason I've played as long as I have. You've inspired me to be better every day," Haynes said.
"I've learnt something from all of you, on and off the field. You've challenged me as a player, helped me grow as a person and most importantly, made cricket fun.
"One of the great things about having a long career is watching those around you develop. I'm extremely proud of the way this team has brought players in and nurtured their development.
"The ability to help players transition smoothly has been instrumental to our team's success. To be a leader within this environment has been the greatest privilege of my career."
Cricket Australia chief executive Nick Hockley praised Haynes for her role off the field as well as her feats on it.
"Rachael's calm and assured leadership has played a key role in Australia becoming one of the most successful sporting teams in history. She will go down as a great of the game," he said.
"Rachael has been an inspirational figure for kids coming into the game and to her many teammates, and has played an integral part in the advancement of cricket as a sport for women and girls, both here in Australia and around the world.
''We look forward to watching Rachael in the WBBL this season and hope she maintains a close connection to the game in coming years."
