England women’s cricket suffers a major blow as Nat Ferne, one of its rising stars, retires prematurely at 29. A nagging back problem, which started four years back, has robbed the game of a fierce competitor who dazzled with bat and ball.
Playing for Surrey and Oval Invincibles, Ferne’s career was derailed by the injury that kept her out for a full year at the outset. Multiple comebacks fell short as the pain persisted, ultimately leading to this tough call.
Ferne’s prodigious talent was evident early. She made her international bow on the 2013-14 Ashes-winning tour Down Under as the baby of the team. Back home, she dominated with Southern Vipers, lifting the Women’s Super League trophy twice and becoming a domestic powerhouse.
The 2021 Hundred tournament cemented her reputation. For Oval Invincibles, Ferne’s 18-wicket haul was instrumental in their title triumph, earning her accolades as the competition’s leading wicket-taker.
In her retirement statement, Ferne was candid: ‘Wonderful backing and exhaustive recovery attempts couldn’t bridge the gap to elite standards. The mental and physical toll of injuries, plus not meeting my self-imposed benchmarks, seals this decision.’
Looking ahead, Ferne eyes a future in cricket media and broadcasting, determined to remain involved in the sport that shaped her life. Her exit leaves a void, but her achievements ensure she’ll be remembered as a trailblazer.