Suzie Bates is a legend in women’s cricket, with a remarkable career that spans over 17 years and 150 ODIs. In this interview, Bates reflects on her cricketing journey, the evolution of the game, and the growing opportunities for women in international cricket. Her story is one of dedication, growth, and inspiration for young players across the globe.

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Suzie Bates: A Milestone Career in Women’s Cricket

When asked how it feels to have played 150 One Day Internationals (ODIs) and been part of the White Ferns for over 17 years, Suzie Bates’ passion for the sport is clear. She expressed how special it feels to be part of the team, despite the challenges. Although the White Ferns lost the one-day series, Bates remained upbeat after securing a win in the first T20 game. With high energy and enthusiasm for her team, she looks forward to continuing her journey and making the most of every game.

Reflecting on 17 Years of Cricket

Bates’ reflection on her 17-year career showcases how much the game has evolved. She remembers her debut at Lincoln, where games weren’t even televised, and players received meager compensation. Back then, playing cricket was almost a hobby, though taken very seriously. Players often balanced jobs outside the sport, as professional contracts were nonexistent.

Fast forward to today, and women’s cricket has transformed. The introduction of global tournaments like the Women’s IPL and The Hundred, and sold-out matches such as the 2020 World Cup final at the MCG featuring Katy Perry, highlight the rapid rise of the sport. Bates feels fortunate to have been part of both the amateur and professional eras, but she acknowledges the heartbreaks and challenges, particularly in World Cups.

Suzie Bates: Career Batting, Bowling, and Fielding Stats Overview

Career Batting Stats – Right-Handed Batsman

ODI (One Day Internationals)

Years Active: 2006–Present
Matches Played: 163
Innings: 157
Not Outs: 16
Runs Scored: 5718
Highest Score: 168
Batting Average: 40.5
Balls Faced: 7134
Strike Rate: 80.2
Hundreds (100s): 13
Fifties (50s): 34
Fours (4s): 656
Sixes (6s): 20

T20I (Twenty20 Internationals)

Years Active: 2007–Present
Matches Played: 165
Innings: 162
Not Outs: 12
Runs Scored: 4434
Highest Score: 124*
Batting Average: 29.6
Balls Faced: 4068
Strike Rate: 109.0
Hundreds (100s): 1
Fifties (50s): 28
Fours (4s): 493
Sixes (6s): 34

T20 (Overall T20 Career)

Years Active: 2007–Present
Matches Played: 426
Innings: 419
Not Outs: 49
Runs Scored: 11,839
Highest Score: 124*
Batting Average: 32.0
Balls Faced: 10,836
Strike Rate: 109.3
Hundreds (100s): 6
Fifties (50s): 71
Fours (4s): 1316
Sixes (6s): 82

Career Bowling Stats – Right-Arm Medium Bowler

ODI (One Day Internationals)

Years Active: 2006–Present
Matches Played: 163
Innings Bowled: 107
Balls Bowled: 3137
Maidens: 31
Runs Conceded: 2597
Wickets Taken: 78
Best Bowling Figures: 4/7
Economy Rate: 4.96
Bowling Average: 33.3
Strike Rate: 40.2
4 Wicket Hauls: 1
5 Wicket Hauls: 0

T20I (Twenty20 Internationals)

Years Active: 2007–Present
Matches Played: 165
Innings Bowled: 88
Balls Bowled: 1227
Maidens: 1
Runs Conceded: 1348
Wickets Taken: 58
Best Bowling Figures: 4/26
Economy Rate: 6.59
Bowling Average: 23.2
Strike Rate: 21.1
4 Wicket Hauls: 1
5 Wicket Hauls: 0

T20 (Overall T20 Career)

Years Active: 2007–Present
Matches Played: 426
Innings Bowled: 269
Balls Bowled: 4489
Maidens: 3
Runs Conceded: 4865
Wickets Taken: 208
Best Bowling Figures: 5/15
Economy Rate: 6.50
Bowling Average: 23.4
Strike Rate: 21.6
4 Wicket Hauls: 3
5 Wicket Hauls: 1

The Rise of Women’s Cricket: From Hobby to Professionalism

Bates emphasizes how much international women’s cricket has progressed since her debut. Back then, all players were amateurs, and many had full-time jobs. Now, countries like Australia, England, and India have fully contracted players not only on national teams but domestically as well. This structure has led to an increase in depth, competition, and skill.

She highlights Australia as an example, where investment in women’s cricket has resulted in consistently strong teams winning multiple tournaments. Bates also credits the introduction of the Women’s IPL, which has started to level the playing field by fostering even more competition.

The changes in the sport have been remarkable, especially in power hitting, athleticism, and the rise of fast bowlers. Bates believes that increased training opportunities and professionalism have made these improvements possible. It’s no surprise that today’s players are more skilled and capable than ever before.

A Bronze Medal at the Commonwealth Games: A Career Highlight

Among the highlights of Bates’ career is winning a bronze medal at the 2022 Birmingham Commonwealth Games. For her, this achievement is one of the most memorable moments, especially after a career filled with close calls and missed opportunities in semifinals and finals.

As a young girl, Bates was inspired by watching the 2000 World Cup final on TV, which was the first time she saw women’s cricket televised. To go on and play alongside some of her heroes from that time, such as Rebecca Rolls and Emily Drumm, made the experience even more meaningful. Now, as a senior player, Bates is aware that young girls are watching her and dreaming of becoming White Ferns, just as she once did.

Mentorship and the Next Generation of Cricketers

Bates finds joy in mentoring the younger players in the team. Surrounded by emerging talent like Millie Kerr and Fran Jonas, Bates feels invigorated by their enthusiasm and ambition. She loves training with them and admires their dedication to the game.

Despite being one of the senior players in her 30s, Bates maintains a youthful spirit and stays connected with the younger team members. She’s particularly inspired by Millie Kerr’s drive to improve and be the best. Bates also aims to make sure new players feel comfortable in the team environment, as she remembers how intimidating it can be for newcomers.

Transitioning to Spin: A New Chapter in Her Career

In recent years, Bates has transitioned from medium pace to spin bowling, a shift that came after a shoulder injury. Initially starting as a joke during net sessions, her spin bowling caught the attention of the coaches. Bates embraced the change and took it seriously, putting in the effort to contribute to the team as a spinner.

Though her main focus remains on batting, Bates enjoys the challenge of bowling in spin-friendly conditions and assisting the younger spinners with her experience. It’s another way she continues to evolve as a player while also contributing to the team.

The Importance of Senior Leadership in the White Ferns

As a senior player, Bates recognizes the responsibility she and her fellow veterans, like Sophie Devine, have in guiding the White Ferns through a period of transition. After the 2022 World Cup, the team saw significant changes, including the retirement of experienced players like Amy Satterthwaite and Katie Martin.

Bates acknowledges that the team’s recent performances have been inconsistent, but she remains optimistic about the future. With two major tournaments on the horizon, including the 2024 T20 World Cup, Bates believes it’s crucial for the senior players to lead by example and instill confidence in the younger generation.

Career Fielding Stats

ODI (One Day Internationals)

Years Active: 2006–Present
Catches: 81
Run Outs: 13
Stumpings: 0

T20I (Twenty20 Internationals)

Years Active: 2007–Present
Catches: 83
Run Outs: 9
Stumpings: 0

T20 (Overall T20 Career)

Years Active: 2007–Present
Catches: 235
Run Outs: 37
Stumpings: 0

Looking Ahead: The Future of Women’s Cricket

As Suzie Bates looks back on her storied career, she also looks ahead with optimism for the future of women’s cricket. The sport has come a long way from its amateur beginnings, and Bates is excited to see where it will go next.

With the continued growth of domestic leagues, international tournaments, and increased visibility on TV and social media, there are more opportunities than ever for young girls to dream of becoming professional cricketers. Bates is determined to make the most of the time she has left in the game, while also inspiring the next generation of White Ferns.

In conclusion, Suzie Bates’ journey is a testament to the evolution of women’s cricket. From playing in non-televised games for minimal pay to being part of a fully professional era with global tournaments and equal match pay, Bates has seen it all. As she continues to contribute to the White Ferns, both on and off the field, Bates remains a beacon of inspiration for aspiring cricketers worldwide.

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Suzie Bates on Women Cricket Stats, Age and Journey of Transformation and Success