The wicketkeeper-batswoman was Ireland’s second-most-capped female cricketer.
Due to an injury, Waldron, 39, was ruled out of Friday’s third ODI against Australia. She retired as Ireland’s second-most-capped woman in international cricket.
Waldron said in a statement, “This is obviously a very emotional time, but I am very proud of what I have accomplished.”
“I would like to express my gratitude to the staff and coaches at Cricket Ireland for the chance to represent my country, as well as to Pembroke and Malahide for shaping my journey and providing me with unwavering support.”
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Waldron played football for Ireland prior to making her international cricket debut in her late 20s. After being selected to keep wickets for Pembroke Cricket Club, she achieved 111 dismissals as a wicketkeeper, the most for Ireland. She also lead Ireland in two One-Day Internationals.
“Mary was one of those players you always wanted in your squad – a born leader both on and off the field,” said Ireland’s head coach, Ed Joyce.
“Regardless of the circumstances, she could always be counted on to rally her colleagues or provide support during difficult periods.
“Being someone who came to cricket relatively late, it is remarkable how rapidly she learned and how insightful and perceptive she became.
Successive captains praised her ability to read the game, rapidly analyze situations, and detect fielding changes.”
In 2015, while playing in Tasmania, Waldron developed an interest in umpiring, and in 2018, she became the first woman to umpire a men’s List A match. In 2019, she and Eloise Sheridan became the first women in Australia to officiate men’s first-grade cricket.
“It’s a sad day when a teammate retires, but it’s even sadder when that teammate is Mary Waldron,” said Laura Delany, captain of Ireland.
“We both made our international debuts on the same day, and I’ve enjoyed every moment of playing with her.
“Having a great wicketkeeper on your team is an asset, but having a great analytical mind and being able to assess game circumstances from behind the stumps is a godsend. She has helped me become a better leader through our many on-field and off-field discussions.”
