Arlene Kelly announces retirement from international cricket

Ireland women’s all-rounder Arlene Kelly has announced her retirement from international cricket following a match against England Women in Worcester. The 32-year-old, originally from New Zealand, concluded a professional international career that spanned four and a half years after moving to Ireland in 2022.

Kelly became one of Ireland’s most consistent performers, appearing in 110 of the team’s 117 matches since her debut against South Africa in June 2022. She finished her career as Ireland’s third-highest wicket-taker, trailing only Isobel Joyce and Laura Delany. Her career highlights include a career-best bowling performance of 5-12 against the Netherlands in a 2023 T20I, as well as being named the ICC International Women’s Player of the Month in August 2023.

In addition to her bowling, Kelly contributed 601 runs in white-ball cricket and previously served as captain during the 2025 season. Kelly stated that the time felt right to retire and return to New Zealand to be with her family and friends.