New Zealand pace leader Lea Tahuhu retires from ODI cricket

Veteran New Zealand fast bowler Lea Tahuhu has announced her retirement from Women’s One Day International cricke t, bringing the curtain down on a remarkable 15 year journey with the New Zealand women's national cricket team. The 35 year old pacer leaves the format as one of the most influential bowlers in the history of New Zealand women’s cricket.

Tahuhu finishes her ODI career with 125 wickets from 103 matches , the highest number of wickets for New Zealand in Women’s ODIs . Known for her pace, aggression, and ability to strike in crucial moments, she remained a central figure in the team’s bowling attack for more than a decade.

She made her ODI debut against Australia women's national cricket team in June 2011 and quickly established herself as a dependable fast bowler. Over the years, Tahuhu represented New Zealand in four editions of the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup in 2013, 2017, 2022 and 2025.

World Cup tournaments were particularly memorable for the experienced pacer. Across the four editions, she claimed 36 wickets , the most by a New Zealand bowler in the history of the Women’s ODI World Cup and the ninth highest overall on the all time list . Her final ODI appearance came during the 2025 World Cup against England women's national cricket team.

Reflecting on her journey, Tahuhu described representing her country as a lifelong privilege.

“It’s always been a privilege and honour to wear the White Ferns shirt in ODI cricket. Even playing one game felt special. To have represented my country and family more than 100 times is something I never imagined,” she said in a statement released by New Zealand Cricket.

While stepping away from the 50 over format, Tahuhu has made it clear that her international career is not over. She will continue to play T20 Internationals and hopes to help New Zealand defend their title at the upcoming ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in England and Wales later this year.

For New Zealand cricket, Tahuhu’s ODI retirement marks the end of a powerful chapter defined by pace, consistency, and an enduring commitment to the White Ferns jersey.