Moises Henriques, the long-serving captain of New South Wales, has officially announced his retirement from first-class cricket. The 38-year-old, who represented Australia in four Test matches, will continue to play for NSW in the One-Day Cup and has one season remaining with the Sydney Sixers, where he also serves as captain.
Henriques stepped away from the Sheffield Shield midway through the 2024-25 season, last appearing in November. Since then, Jack Edwards, who was named the state’s one-day captain, led the side for the remainder of the campaign. Despite a strong push for the Shield final, NSW ultimately finished in fourth place.
A Difficult Decision
Reflecting on his decision to retire, Henriques revealed he had made up his mind before the end of 2024.
“I pretty much decided before Christmas that it was time to stop playing Sheffield Shield cricket,” Henriques said. “It has been an honor to lead and play for this state, but I believe that, at my age, leading means contributing to victories. While my body is still capable, I wasn’t delivering match-winning performances in the longer format.”
Henriques expressed confidence in the next generation of NSW players, believing they are well-prepared to carry the team forward. “We have a terrific group of younger players who will drive this great state forward, and I will watch on with keen interest,” he added.
A Legacy of Consistency and Leadership
Throughout his first-class career, Henriques amassed 6,830 runs at an average of 34.84, including 13 centuries, while also claiming 127 wickets at 30.75. Seen as a future star early in his career, he made an impressive Test debut against India in Chennai in 2013, scoring 68 and an unbeaten 81. However, he struggled in his subsequent three Test appearances against India and Sri Lanka, failing to reach double figures.
Despite his brief international career, Henriques’ impact on domestic cricket has been significant. His leadership, both on and off the field, has been a defining aspect of his tenure with NSW.
“I leave the team in great hands with Jack Edwards, who has already shown strong leadership early in his career,” Henriques said. “I want to thank Cricket NSW for their support. I’ve been part of this organization since I was 17, and they’ve helped me every step of the way. I hope to continue contributing in the shorter formats and giving back to the game that has given me so much.”
Tributes to a Stalwart
New South Wales coach Greg Shipperd praised Henriques for his invaluable contributions over the years.
“What Moises has achieved on the field is well-documented, but his impact off the field is equally significant,” Shipperd said. “He is the ultimate professional and leader, and cricket in NSW is far better for his involvement. He showed in the One-Day Cup and BBL this year that he still has plenty to offer, and I’m looking forward to working with him in the shorter formats.”
As Henriques transitions away from the red-ball game, his legacy as a committed leader and consistent performer remains firmly embedded in the fabric of New South Wales cricket. With his focus now on limited-overs cricket, fans can expect to see more of his leadership and skill on display in the coming seasons.
