Sammy-Jo Johnson Retires from Cricket After WNCL Triumph with New South Wales
Sammy-Jo Johnson, the accomplished all-rounder, has announced her retirement from professional cricket following a triumphant Women’s National Cricket League (WNCL) campaign with New South Wales. The 31-year-old concluded her illustrious career on a high, playing a crucial role in NSW’s victory over Queensland in the WNCL final, securing the coveted Ruth Preddy Cup. Johnson’s final performance saw her take 2 wickets for 36 runs, further cementing her legacy as a dominant force in Australian cricket. While her cricket journey has come to an end, Johnson is eager to embrace new challenges, including pursuing her passion for drag racing and working towards a career as a full-time mechanic.
“I’m excited for the next chapter. Becoming a mechanic has always been a dream of mine, and now I’ll be one step closer to moving into that full time,” Johnson shared, expressing her enthusiasm for the future. “I’m also looking forward to spending more time with family and friends, and of course, racing at Sydney Dragway.”
Johnson’s cricketing career began in the New South Wales pathway system before she moved to Queensland in search of greater playing opportunities. She quickly became an integral part of the Brisbane Heat, contributing significantly to their back-to-back Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) titles in the 2018-19 and 2019-20 seasons. In 2020, Johnson returned to New South Wales, joining the Sydney Thunder in the WBBL and captaining them to a title during the challenging Covid-affected season. She also captained the NSW Breakers in 17 matches, demonstrating exceptional leadership qualities both on and off the field. “Leading the side has been one of my greatest honours and even through the challenges, I was always well supported and loved every moment,” Johnson reflected.
Her final WNCL triumph held particular significance: “To finish my career with a WNCL title is unbelievable, but what means even more is seeing the growth in this group over the last five years. Being part of the team that brought Ruth home is something I will always cherish and be proud of.”
Johnson’s career statistics underscore her impact on the game. She amassed impressive figures in both the WBBL and WNCL, showcasing her all-round abilities. In the WBBL, she claimed 109 wickets and scored 962 runs, while in the WNCL, she took 103 wickets and scored 1079 runs. Her contributions to Australian cricket have been widely recognized and praised by prominent figures within the sport.
Leah Poulton, Cricket NSW’s head of female cricket, commended Johnson’s dedication and influence: “Sammy’s been an integral part of both the NSW Breakers and Sydney Thunder and leaves a lasting impact on the game. Her leadership, consistency, and all-round ability have set a high standard for those who follow in her footsteps.”
Sydney Thunder general manager Trent Copeland echoed these sentiments, highlighting Johnson’s impact on the club: “Her passion and experience provided a competitive edge, and the influence she’s had on our younger players is immeasurable. What an absolute ripper of a human being. An exceptional leader in every situation, we are incredibly grateful for Sammy-Jo’s contributions to the club, and we have no doubt she will thrive in her next chapter.”
As Sammy-Jo Johnson embarks on her new endeavors, the cricketing world will remember her not only for her impressive on-field performances but also for her leadership, sportsmanship, and unwavering passion for the game.
