Cross to end 15‑year career as English summer draws to a close

England fast bowler Kate Cross has announced she will retire from professional cricket at the end of the home summer, closing a 15‑year international career that featured 102 appearances across formats. The 34‑year‑old, who lost her ECB central contract last September, finishes with 101 ODI wickets, 25 in Tests and 14 in T20Is. In an emotional message, Cross said it was difficult to say goodbye to a sport that shaped her life, but acknowledged that “the final chapter is in sight.” A Lancashire product, she joined the county’s junior setup at 13 and became the first girl admitted to its academy.

Her England debut arrived in 2013, highlighted by standout spells in Barbados and a match‑winning Test performance in Perth. Cross also featured in the WBBL and captained Manchester Originals. Recently back with Sunrisers Leeds, she will complete the summer with Lancashire before stepping away, grateful for the memories and people cricket brought her.