Christchurch: New Zealand women's wicketkeeper and batsman Bernadine Bezuidenhout has announced her retirement from international cricket but will continue to play domestic cricket next season.
Born in South Africa, Bezuidenhout made his debut for his home country in 2014 before moving to New Zealand and making his debut for the New Zealand national team in 2018.
She is one of only nine women cricketers to have represented two countries at the highest level – playing four ODIs and seven T20Is for South Africa and 16 ODIs and 22 T20Is for New Zealand.
“It's been an incredible journey. Playing for the White Ferns has been a huge privilege and honour and has left me with some of the best memories. This journey has taught me so much and I will be forever grateful to everyone who has been on this journey with me,” Bezuidenhout told New Zealand Cricket.
Outside of cricket, Bezuidenhout has had a successful career in not-for-profit social enterprise, setting up the EPIC Sports Projects Charitable Trust which aims to give young people from underprivileged communities a sense of hope and belonging through sport, breaking down barriers to sport participation.
She said the charitable trust was the main reason she decided to retire: “I am happy with the decision but it was by no means an easy one.”
“I have struggled for some time to balance my work and playing career, but after much thought and consideration I feel the time is right to change direction and devote all my efforts to EPIC Sports Project.”
Women's team head coach Ben Sawyer thanked Bernie for her dedication.
“I want to thank Bernie for all he has contributed to the White Ferns on the field and the compassion he has brought to the team off the field,” Sawyer said.
“We are proud of the work Bernie does outside of cricket and are confident that she will continue to have a positive impact on many lives.”