New Zealand White Ferns wicketkeeper Bernadine Bezuidenhout has confirmed her immediate retirement from international cricket.
The 30-year-old's announcement comes after she represented South Africa in four ODIs and seven T20Is (2014-15) before switching to play for New Zealand in 16 ODIs and 22 T20Is (2018-24).
Born in South Africa, she relocated to Christchurch, New Zealand, in 2015 and made her international debut for the country three years later, in 2018.
Unfortunately, she had to take time away from the game for two years after being diagnosed with RED-S (Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport).
"It's been such a great ride," Bezuidenhout said in a New Zealand Cricket media statement.
"Playing for the White Ferns has been a huge privilege and honour and it's left me with the fondest memories.
"The journey has taught me so much and I'll be forever grateful to everyone who has been on the path with me."
"I'm at peace with this decision but it wasn't an easy one to make," Bezuidenhout added.
"I've struggled to find a balance between my work and playing career for a while now, and after a lot of thought and reflection I feel that it's the right time to pivot and put my full focus on The EPIC Sports Project."
Following being diagnosed with RED-S, she founded founded the non-profit, social enterprise The EPIC Sports Project Charitable Trust.
The charity aims to use sport to inspire hope and belonging in young people.
"I want to thank Bernie for the contributions she's made to the White Ferns on the field, and for the caring qualities she brought to the group off the field," Ben Sawyer, the New Zealand head coach, stated.
"We're proud of the work that Bernie does outside of cricket and I have no doubt she'll continue to make a positive impact on the lives of many."
While she will retire from international cricket she will continue to play domestic cricket for the Northern Districts in New Zealand.
