NZ's Lea Tahuhu Hangs Up ODI Jersey, Shifts Focus to T20 Cricket

New Zealand's Lea Tahuhu has retired from One-Day Internationals (ODIs) after a 15-year career, during which she became the country's all-time leading wicket-taker with 125 wickets in 103 matches. Tahuhu, 35, made her ODI debut against Australia in 2011 and went on to feature in four World Cups. She'll continue playing T20 cricket, focusing on defending New Zealand's T20 World Cup title in England this year. Lea Tahuhu was a force to be reckoned with at her peak, known for her blazing pace and big-game experience. Her 36 wickets in ODI World Cups are a testament to her clutch performances on the biggest stages, including four World Cup appearances for New Zealand. New Zealand head coach Ben Sawyer lauded Tahuhu's ODI achievements, saying that her numbers speak for themselves. "Lea has operated at the top of the women's ODI game for 15 years, which is a huge achievement for a pace bowler," Sawyer said. "Lea's pace has always been a strength, but her competitiveness and drive to push this team forward has stood out and that has rubbed off on the younger bowlers who are now coming through and learning their craft in the ODI game. Lea Tahuhu is staying busy! She's retiring from ODIs but will continue playing T20Is for New Zealand and in franchise leagues. Tahuhu was part of New Zealand's 2024 T20 World Cup-winning squad and last played a T20I against Australia in March 2025. She's been named in the squad for the upcoming T20I series against South Africa, with the team announcement on March 10. Sounds like Lea Tahuhu's got a fire in her belly for T20 cricket! She's pumped to contribute to the team and defend New Zealand's T20 World Cup title in England later this year. With her experience and skill, the team is in good hands. Lea Tahuhu has hung up her ODI boots, signing off with 125 wickets in 103 matches. "It's been a privilege to represent my country," she said, reflecting on her incredible journey. Tahuhu's last ODI was against England at the 2025 World Cup.