Mary Waldron, the 39-year-old Ireland wicketkeeper-batter, has announced her retirement as Ireland’s most-capped player after having a 13-year-old career in international cricket. Waldron, who made her debut in July 2010, played for Ireland in 56 ODIs and 88 T20Is, with her last international appearance coming in the second ODI against Australia on July 25 as well.
While Waldron was originally going to retire at the end of the series but an unfortunate injury in the second game saw her out of the third ODI on Friday (July 28) as well.
“It’s obviously a very emotional time but I’m very proud of what I have achieved,” said Mary Waldron on her decision to retire. “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,” she continued.
Mary Waldron – what a legend. #BackingGreen #ThanksMary pic.twitter.com/8O1w0be97P
— Ireland Women’s Cricket (@IrishWomensCric) July 28, 2023
Mary Waldron started playing cricket in her mid-20s, having previously played for Ireland in football. Apart from scoring 481 runs in ODIS and 531 runs in T20Is, Waldron also took 67 catches and made 44 stumpings in her international career as well. She was also the captain of the senior team in 10 matches, with a win percentage of 60 as well.
“She will be missed greatly, by the coaches, but probably more so by her teammates” – Ed Joyce on Mary Waldron
“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,” added Ed Joyce, head coach of the Ireland women’s team.
“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,” he stated.
“She will be missed greatly, by the coaches, but probably more so by her teammates to whom she was friend, colleague or mentor – and sometimes all three at once. I know her playing retirement is not Mary’s loss to our sport, as she is already making her way through the umpiring ranks and I wish her well in that new primary focus,” he concluded.
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