Southern Vipers wicketkeeper Carla Rudd retires

Rudd has taken the decision to leave the game after being appointed as director of sport at The Leys School in Cambridge

Southern Vipers have been dealt a blow with the retirement of wicketkeeper Carla Rudd, who is ending her playing career to devote her time to a coaching role.

Rudd, 28, was part of the teams that won the Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy in 2020 and 2021 and the Charlotte Edwards Cup in 2022. She also represented Southern Brave in The Hundred.

But after taking over as director of sport at The Leys School in Cambridge, she has taken the decision to leave the game.

"I am excited by the opportunity and wish to give the position, and its responsibilities, my full attention," she said. "It has, nevertheless, been a difficult decision.

"I am so thankful that I have had the opportunity to play with such a great group over the last seven years, and I will cherish the memories and friendships made. Finally, I would like to thank the coaches and supporters for everything along the way."

Rudd was part of the Kia Super League from its inception and won the inaugural edition. She made her county debut for Sussex against Kent, who were captained by Edwards, who would later become her head coach at Vipers.

^{Rudd represented Southern Brave in The Hundred (Nathan Stirk/Getty Images)}

No wicketkeeper has effected more dismissals since the domestic game's regionalisation than Rudd, who took 45 catches and 30 stumpings.

Adam Carty, regional director of women's cricket at Vipers, added: "Carla has been a champion for women's cricket and a stalwart for the Vipers over the past seven years.

"She's performed consistently at an extremely high level for the region and has been instrumental in recent team successes as our number one keeper. She's always personified total professionalism and has played with humility and class throughout her time in orange and black.

"We will miss her terribly, none more so than as a senior professional on the pitch, but as the lead vocalist when the players belt out our team victory song.

"Her numbers with the gloves speak for themselves and although not so often called upon, she's turned up more than once when we've been in trouble to deliver with the bat. I'd like to thank her personally for her service and dedication to the Viper badge. I hope in retirement she feels much pride and great satisfaction at the respect she’s earned and the performances she's given."

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