Cross to retire from professional cricket at end of season

Kate Cross said it was "the right time to retire" after a glittering career playing for Lancashire and England; Cross won 102 international caps across all three formats and took 140 wickets for England

Lancashire and England bowler Kate Cross has announced she will retire from professional cricket at the end of this season.

The 34-year-old, who became the first woman to join Lancashire's Academy in 2026, enjoyed a glittering career, making her senior county debut for Lancashire in 2005 at the age of 13.

During a 21-year spell with Lancashire, Cross took 239 wickets across all formats in the Red Rose's professional and non-professional teams.

She would later go on to make her England debut in October 2013 and won 102 international caps across all three formats, taking 140 wickets.

"Retiring hasn't been an easy decision, but it feels like the right time," Cross said.

"I'm excited to see what comes next, and I hope to stay involved in the game I love.

"Before that though, I look forward to playing out the rest of the season with Lancashire as we look to challenge for more silverware."