Suzie Bates, the former captain of New Zealand, is gearing up to wrap up her incredible international career after the upcoming Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 in England. This marks the end of an extraordinary journey that has spanned more than twenty years. 

The seasoned allrounder recently made her comeback after recovering from a quadriceps injury and is anticipated to be included in the 15-member squad that will be announced next week.

The team is set to head to England in early May for a series of ODIs and T20Is as part of their preparations. As the defending champions heading into the global tournament, Bates is determined to finish her career on a high note. 

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Her journey began at just 15 when she made her domestic debut in 2003, stepping onto the international scene in 2006. Over the years, she has made her mark in the record books, currently holding the title of the leading run-scorer in women’s T20Is with 4,717 runs, and ranking fourth in the all-time ODI run charts with 5,964 runs. 

Bates also captained New Zealand from July 2011, leading the team for nearly seven years and playing a crucial role in their success during her time at the helm. Outside of cricket, she has also represented New Zealand in basketball, notably playing for the Tall Ferns at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. 

As Suzie Bates prepares to conclude her long and successful international career after the Women’s T20 World Cup 2026, her legacy is undeniable. With her wealth of experience, impressive records, and strong leadership, she is sure to be remembered as one of New Zealand’s greatest cricketers.