In a move that has sent shockwaves through Australian cricket, West Australian fast bowler Piepa Cleary has announced her immediate retirement from all levels of the sport. The 27-year-old, a key figure for the Perth Scorchers in the Women's Big Bash League (WBBL) and a stalwart for Western Australia, made the surprise decision public on Tuesday, May 28.
A Sudden End to a Promising Career
The announcement came as a bolt from the blue for fans and teammates alike. Cleary, known for her fiery pace and competitive spirit, was widely regarded as being in the prime of her career. She had recently been a consistent performer for both her state and franchise teams. In a heartfelt statement, Cleary cited the need to prioritise her life away from the cricket field as the primary reason for her sudden departure.
"The time is right for me to move on to the next chapter of my life," Cleary stated. She expressed immense gratitude for the opportunities cricket had provided but emphasised that her passion for the game had naturally diminished over recent times. The physical and mental demands of the professional sporting lifestyle ultimately led to her decision to step away.
A Stalwart for WA and the Scorchers
Piepa Cleary's career was one of dedication and resilience. She made her debut for Western Australia in the 2015-16 season and quickly became a linchpin of their bowling attack. Her commitment to her home state was unwavering, and she was a respected leader within the squad.
Her impact in the WBBL with the Perth Scorchers was equally significant. Cleary was a foundation player for the franchise, appearing in 77 matches and taking 64 wickets with her right-arm medium-fast deliveries. She played a crucial role in the Scorchers' journey to the WBBL final in the 2021-22 season, forming a formidable bowling partnership with fellow quick Taneale Peschel. Her presence on the field will be sorely missed by the purple army.
While an international cap for Australia remained elusive, Cleary's talent was recognised at the national level. She was a regular in Cricket Australia's National Performance Squad and was a member of the Australia A team that toured India in 2023, showcasing her skills against high-quality opposition.
Legacy and Future Endeavours
The immediate retirement leaves a notable void in both the Western Australian and Perth Scorchers line-ups. Cricket Western Australia's General Manager of High Performance, Kade Harvey, paid tribute to Cleary's substantial contributions. He praised her professionalism, her development into a senior player, and the positive influence she had on younger teammates throughout her nine-year career.
Cleary indicated that her future plans involve focusing on her career outside of cricket. She is currently employed by the Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) in Western Australia, a role she is now free to pursue with full commitment. Her departure marks the end of an era for WA women's cricket, but her legacy as a tough, dedicated, and homegrown talent will endure.
The cricket community has been quick to react with an outpouring of support and well-wishes for Cleary's next steps. Her decision underscores the increasing awareness and openness among elite athletes regarding mental well-being and life balance, setting a powerful example for the next generation.
