Ireland's most-capped female cricketer Mary Waldron has announced her international retirement after a career that included 184 appearances and 148 dismissals.
Dublin-born Waldron, 39, was late to cricket, first having 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 national team's number one wicketkeeper.
Waldron, who played 56 one-day internationals and 88 T20 internationals, was renowned for her quick hands and agile footwork.
She captained the senior side 10 times (with a 60% win rate) and was a central part of Ireland’s senior leadership team, as influential off as on the field.
While her intention was to retire after the third ODI of the current series against Australia, an unfortunate injury sustained during the second ODI on Tuesday led to Waldron being ruled out of today’s playing XI.
Aside from dominating the Ireland Women’s wicketkeeping records, Waldron finishes 10th highest run-scorer with a top-score of 55* against West Indies.
Speaking about her decision to retire, Waldron said: "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 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 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."
Ireland Women’s head coach Ed Joyce said: "Mary was one of those players you always wanted in your squad – a born leader both on and off-the field. No matter the situation she could always be relied upon to rally her teammates or be a support during challenging times.
"Being someone who came relatively late to cricket, it’s incredible how she learned quickly, and how insightful and incisive she became. Not only did she lead the side on ten occasions, but her on-field support for the captain from behind the stumps became increasingly important. Her ability to read the game, quickly analyse a situation or to spot a fielding change was welcomed by successive captains."
Laura Delany, Ireland Women’s captain, said: "It’s a sad day when a teammate retires – but even more so when that teammate is Mary Waldron. We made our international debuts on the same day and I have loved every minute of playing alongside her."
