New Zealand women's cricketer Lea Tahuhu has retired from the limited-overs format after an impressive 15-year playing career. The 35-year-old played her first 50-over game against Australia in 2011 when she was just 20 years old. The pacer claimed 125 wickets in 103 ODIs at an economy rate of 4.54. She represented the 'White Ferns' in four Women's World Cup editions- 2013, 2017, 2022 and 2025.
Tahuhu was amongst the fastest bowlers in Women's Cricket. The 35-year-old claimed 36 wickets in the limited overs world cup history, which remains the highest by any New Zealand bowler in the history of the tournament.
Tahuhu played her last ODI against England during the 2025 limited-overs World Cup in India and is among the 12 New Zealand cricketers to play more than 100 ODI games.
Tahuhu stated that it was an honour to play for the New Zealand team, and it is a proud feeling to represent the national team in more than 100 matches in the limited-overs format. Tahuhu stated that wearing the national team jersey was always a proud moment, and she is proud of her achievements in the limited-overs format.
However, the 35-year-old pacer will continue playing in the shorter format for New Zealand as well as franchise cricket. Tahuhu played her last T20I game against Australia in March 2025. She was also in the 2024 T20 World Cup-winning team that won the 2024 Women's T20 World Cup.
New Zealand cricket has stated that she will also play in the upcoming five-match T20I series against South Africa that will begin on the 15th of March. Tahuhu stated that she is eager to continue to play in the shorter format for New Zealand women and is keen to help 'White Ferns' defend the Women's T20 World Cup trophy in England this year.
New Zealand coach Ben Sawyer praised her achievements, stating that Tahuhu has contributed immensely in the limited-overs format for New Zealand women. Sawyer further added that Tahuhu has produced some fine performances in the last 15 years in Women's cricket in the limited-overs format, which is a big achievement for a fast bowler.
Sawyer stated that Tahuhu's resolute approach and her energy to take the team to greater heights have been a big feature that has motivated the upcoming cricketers and bowlers who have upskilled themselves and are shaping their skills in the 50-over format.
Tahuhu has been an experienced campaigner, leading the bowling attack for the last 15 years, which has clearly reflected her ability to be a leader and motivate others.
