Australian pace star Mitchell Starc has won hearts across the cricketing community with a simple yet emotional message for his wife, Alyssa Healy, after she announced her retirement from international cricket. Healy, one of the greatest wicketkeeper-batters in the history of the women’s game, confirmed on Tuesday that she would call time on her illustrious career following Australia’s series against India in February and March.

“Proud of ya” — Starc’s touching tribute

Taking to Instagram, Starc posted a heartfelt three-word message for his wife that quickly went viral. Alongside a picture of Healy, the fast bowler wrote:

> “Proud of ya ❤️”

The post, shared on Starc’s Instagram story, was short but deeply emotional — reflecting the mutual respect and admiration shared between the power couple of world cricket. The two have been married since April 2016, and their relationship remains one of the most celebrated in the game, with both excelling at the international level.

Starc, in a separate post later, also paid tribute to Healy’s phenomenal career and the impact she has had on women’s cricket globally.

A legendary career comes to an end

Alyssa Healy’s retirement announcement came via the Willow Talk podcast, which she co-hosts. The veteran confirmed that the upcoming home series against India will mark the end of her 16-year-long international journey.

“It’s with mixed emotions that the upcoming India series will be my last for Australia,” Healy said. “I’m still passionate about playing for Australia, but I’ve somewhat lost that competitive edge that’s kept me driven since the start, so the time feels right to call it a day.”

One of Australia’s most decorated cricketers, Healy leaves behind a glittering career that includes:

  • 6 T20 World Cup titles

  • 2 ODI World Cup titles

  • 1 Commonwealth Games gold medal

Across formats, Healy amassed 7,106 runs — the third-most by any Australian woman after Meg Lanning (8,352) and Ellyse Perry (7,607).

Leadership farewell on home soil

The 35-year-old confirmed that she will not participate in the T20Is against India, stepping aside to give the next generation of players preparation time ahead of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 in England and Wales. However, she will captain Australia in the ODIs and the one-off Test to close out her international career.

“Knowing I won’t be going to the T20 World Cup this year and the limited preparation time the team has, I won’t be part of the T20s against India, but I’m excited to have the opportunity to finish my career and captain the ODI and Test side at home against India — one of the biggest series on the calendar for us,” she added.

Her decision means she will not get to play the first T20I in Sydney, missing out on what could have been a hometown farewell.

Injuries and mental fatigue took a toll

Healy admitted that the decision wasn’t easy but said recurring injuries and mental fatigue made her realise the time was right to step away.

“The last few years have been probably more mentally draining than anything else. A few injuries — I had to dive into the well a couple of times and that well was getting less and less full of water,” she said.

> “I’ve always wanted to compete and challenge myself, but I’ve lost some of that edge as I’ve got older.”

Healy also clarified that she had originally intended to retire quietly after the final Test match but was prompted to make the announcement earlier due to scheduling requirements.

Australia prepare for life after Healy

With Healy stepping aside, Australia will focus on preparing for the T20 World Cup, which begins on June 13 in Manchester. The side will play three home T20Is against India before traveling for three more in the West Indies as part of their pre-tournament buildup.

Healy’s absence will open up opportunities for younger wicketkeeper-batters, marking the end of one of the most successful eras in Australian women’s cricket history.