New Zealand all-rounder Anna Peterson retires from international cricket

New Zealand Women’s all-rounder Anna Peterson has retired from international cricket, having spent nearly a decade at the highest level. She made her debut for the White Ferns way back in March 2012 against Pakistan in Lincoln. From there on, she played 32 ODIs where she scored 279 runs with a top score of 46 and picked up 27 wickets with two four-wicket hauls.

But her ODI career came to a halt in February 2019. The 31-year-old also plied her trade in 33 T20Is, scoring 92 runs and picking up 18 wickets at an economy rate of 6.88. The Auckland-born veteran last donned the national colours during New Zealand’s match against Meg Lanning’s Australia in the 2020 Women’s T20 World Cup. After calling it a day, Peterson sounded grateful.

The White Ferns have a special team culture, says Anna Peterson

“I’ve loved every minute of playing for the White Ferns and representing New Zealand. A massive thanks has to go to my family, friends, coaches, teammates and all those who helped me throughout my international career,” Peterson was quoted as saying in ESPNcricinfo.

“The White Ferns have a special team culture and I’ve been privileged to make some lifelong connections in the team while I’ve also enjoyed meeting and competing against players from across the globe,” she stated.

Back in 2017, Peterson became the first New Zealand bowler to bag a hat-trick in T20Is. In the first three balls of her spell against Australia, she dismissed Alyssa Healy, Jess Jonassen and Megan Schutt and guided the White Ferns to a seven-run win- DL Method- in Geelong. She also bagged the Player of the Match award for her match-winning performance.

Despite not being a part of international cricket anymore, Peterson has set his goals clear and wants to perform at the domestic level for the Auckland Hearts. She also talked about working as the Rugby Manager for Women and Girls at North Harbour Rugby.

“I still feel I have plenty to offer at the domestic level and I’m looking forward to suiting up for the Auckland Hearts again this season. As an experienced member of the Hearts, I’m enjoying giving back to the younger players and watching them embark on their own cricketing journeys,” Peterson added.