Arlene Kelly Retires: Ireland Women All-Rounder Announces Retirement From International Cricket
Ireland Women's prominent all-rounder Arlene Kelly, 32, has today announced her immediate retirement from international cricket on September 6, 2026, concluding a decorated four-and-a-half-year career. Kelly made 110 appearances across formats, claiming 44 ODI wickets and 91 T20I wickets, including a best of 5/12.
Ireland Women's cricket has bid farewell to one of its most impactful players as all-rounder Arlene Kelly today announced her retirement from international cricket. The 32-year-old, a key figure in the Irish setup since her debut in June 2022, played her final match against England Women in the third One-Day International in Worcester. Kelly, who amassed 110 appearances for Ireland across all formats, brought a successful four-and-a-half-year international career to a close, citing the conclusion of the ongoing series as her swansong. England Women vs Ireland Women Live Cricket Streaming Online in India, 3rd ODI 2026.
Arlene Kelly Retires
After four-and-a-half years in green, Arlo will call time on her international career after today’s match against England. 💚
📰 Read more: https://t.co/cBN300io4B#ThankYouArlo | #BackingGreen | #Evara pic.twitter.com/Cbw8J0yZiO
— Cricket Ireland (@cricketireland) September 6, 2026
A Dynamic Career
Born in Auckland, New Zealand, on January 8, 1994, Kelly leveraged her Irish heritage to represent the Emerald Isle, quickly establishing herself as a formidable right-arm medium bowler and a capable right-handed batter. Her international journey began with her T20I debut on June 3, 2022, against South Africa, followed by her ODI debut just over a week later on June 11, 2022, also against South Africa.
Throughout her career, Kelly was celebrated for her ability to break partnerships with the ball and contribute crucial runs down the order. Her consistent performances earned her the prestigious Women's Player of the Year award at the 2023 Irish Cricket Awards. Furthermore, she was named the ICC Women's Player of the Month for August 2023, following an exceptional T20I series against the Netherlands where she claimed 10 wickets at an astounding average of just 4.30.
Key Career Statistics (International Cricket)
| Format | Matches | Runs | Wickets | Best Bowling |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ODIs | 38 | 422 | 44 | 4/35 vs Scotland Women |
| T20Is | 71 | 179 | 91 | 5/12 vs Netherlands Women |
Kelly's 91 T20I wickets highlight her potency in the shortest format, making her one of Ireland Women's leading wicket-takers. She also took 10 catches in ODIs and 32 in T20Is. Women’s Asia Cup 2026 Points Table: India Finish League Stage Unbeaten After Win Over Pakistan.
Final Match Details
Kelly's last outing for Ireland was the third One-Day International against England Women on September 6, 2026, held at New Road in Worcester. The match marked the end of an era for the all-rounder who has been a cornerstone of Ireland's recent international campaigns.
Arlene Kelly's departure leaves a significant void in the Ireland Women's squad. Her all-round capabilities, leadership, and experience will be sorely missed as the team looks to build for future international challenges.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 06, 2026 04:11 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
