Anya Shrubsole: England bowler and World Cup winner retires from international game
- Published
Shrubsole represented Somerset at the age of 12 before going on to win international recognition
England bowler Anya Shrubsole, a key part of England's 2017 World Cup triumph, has retired from the international game.
The 30-year-old played 173 games for her country across all formats, claiming 227 wickets.
She took six wickets in England's dramatic World Cup final win over India at Lord's in 2017.
"I feel immensely privileged to have been able to represent my country for the past 14 years," said Shrubsole.
"To have been involved in women's cricket at a time of such growth has been an honour but it has become clear to me that it is moving forward faster than I can keep up with, so it is time for me to step away.
"There have been many ups and downs along the way but it was all worth it to be able to lift the ICC Women's World Cup at Lord's in 2017."
'What a hero!' Shrubsole stars in England's World Cup win
Clare Connor, the ECB's managing director of women's cricket, paid tribute to Shrubsole's achievements since her debut against South Africa in August 2008.
"For 14 years she has given everything for the team so it is fitting that her reasons for retiring are so selfless," she said.
"Her longevity, skill and impact with the new and old ball are testament to her work ethic and commitment over so many years."
Shrubsole was England's leading wicket-taker in the World Cup final earlier this month as her side attempted to defend their title.
However her figures of 3-46 with the ball could not prevent England falling to a 71-run defeat by Australia in Christchurch.
Five years previously, Shrubsole was named player of the match in the 2017 final, taking the final wicket as England beat India by nine runs.
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The medium-pacer also took a hat-trick in the 2018 World Twenty20, another campaign that ended in final defeat by Australia.
Shrubsole will captain Southern Brave in the Hundred this year as she continues her career in domestic cricket.
Analysis
BBC Sport's Henry Moeran: "Shrubsole leaves the international game having achieved everything and her 14-year career has traversed a remarkable growth in the women's game.
"Of her 173 international appearances, unquestionably the crowning glory was the World Cup win at Lord's against India in 2017. She took six wickets to win the game and soon after was awarded an MBE for her efforts.
"These will be big shoes to fill for England as they move into a new era without one of the game's greats."
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