New Zealand batter Lauren Down has announced her retirement from International Cricket after an eight-year career with the White Ferns. The 30-year-old last played for New Zealand in December 2024 against Australia, with her final T20I match occurring in December 2022.
Down made her announcement through a statement from New Zealand Cricket, expressing her appreciation for her international experience.
“I have loved my time being part of the White Ferns group, and I am extremely grateful for the opportunity to have represented my country,”
“I will miss being around the girls, but I’m now looking forward to watching on from the sidelines, and seeing what this group is able to achieve.”
Domestic Career and Auckland Contributions
Throughout her career, Down was a reliable player for Auckland in domestic cricket. She began in 2011 with a T20 match against Canterbury and played 202 matches for Auckland, with equal participation in List A and T20 formats. Her stats make her third on Auckland’s all-time T20 run-scorers list with 1,496 runs and fourth in List A with 2,690 runs.
Down contributed to five Hallyburton Johnstone Shield title victories, notably scoring 90 runs in the 2019–20 final that led Auckland to win against Northern Districts. Sharing her domestic experiences, she said:
“A huge part of my cricket career has been in the Auckland set up, and I cannot thank Auckland Cricket, my coaches and teammates enough for the part they have played in my journey.”
International Record and Team Recognition
Down made her international debut in March 2018 with an ODI against the West Indies in Lincoln. Over her career, she played 35 ODIs and 13 T20Is for New Zealand, scoring 486 runs in ODIs at an average of 16.75 and 93 runs in T20Is at an average of 13.28.
New Zealand Women’s head coach Ben Sawyer recognized her dedication to the team.
“Lauren has been a fantastic team person and has always given her all in the White Ferns environment. It’s a testament to her commitment that she was able to return to international cricket so quickly after welcoming her first child.”
Before returning for the 2024–25 season, Down had chosen not to take a central contract for the 2023–24 season. Her last appearance for New Zealand was in the third ODI against Australia at the Basin Reserve, marking the conclusion of her international career.
