Ireland’s Wicketkeeper-batter Mary Waldron retires from international cricket

DUBLIN: Wicketkeeper-batter Mary Waldron, Ireland’s most-capped female cricketer, has announced her retirement, bringing an end to an international career of 13 years that included 184 appearances and 148 dismissals. Mary was to retire after the third ODI of the current series against Australia, but an unfortunate injury sustained during the second ODI on Tuesday led to her being ruled out of the playing eleven for Friday’s match.

“It’s obviously a very emotional time but I’m very proud of what I have achieved. I want to say a huge thank you to the staff and coaches at Cricket Ireland for the opportunity to represent my country, and to Pembroke and Malahide for shaping my journey and supporting me all the way.”

“To my family and Roxane, thank you for your support — and for giving me a roof over my head whenever I needed it. More specifically, to Mum and Dad the best supporters in the world - thank you for everything. Finally, to my teammates, I will miss you so much, but can’t wait to follow your journey over the years ahead,” said Mary in a statement issued by Cricket Ireland.

Born in Dublin, Mary, 39, was late to cricket, having first forged a football career that led to senior international representation for Ireland. It wasn’t until her mid-20s that she committed to cricket and quickly began to establish herself as the number one wicketkeeper in Ireland’s women’s team.

Mary played 56 ODIs and 88 T20Is for Ireland, But was more renowned for her quick hands and agile footwork behind the stumps. She captained the senior side 10 times, with a 60% win rate and was a central part of Ireland Women’s senior leadership team, being influential off and on the field. IANS

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