Former Australian cricketer Rene Farrell has announced her retirement from the Big Bash.

The player, who hasn't played for her national side since 2017, has said that there is still some cricket left in her but she won't feature in the Big Bash in future.

The 32-year-old has played for Sydney Thunder in the tournament since 2015 and although she's stepping back from it she will continue to play for her other club the New South Wales (NSW) Breakers.

Farrell will bow out alongside team mate Alex Blackwell - Australia's all-time most-capped player.

Farrell said: “I still have 50-overs cricket with the NSW Breakers. Hopefully I can go out on a high there like we did for Alex's career and winning that.

“I have a bit of cricket left, [but this send off with Sydney Thunder] was really special.”

Blackwell commented on sharing her final game for Thunder with her friend: “I couldn’t have that send off without sharing it with her. She’s been an absolute legend of the game; really valuable – especially in T20.

“She’s a big loss, a wonderful character. She’s been an incredible servant of the game and it’s easy to get emotional when you think of her contribution.”

Thunder's general manager Chris Botherway said: “Rene Farrell is a well-loved member of Sydney Thunder and her ability to instil confidence in her team-mates with her bright – but fiercely competitive – nature is a rare gift.

“Just as we praised Alex Blackwell for helping to shape the character of this club, we afford the same tribute to Rene. Her contribution to the success and culture of Sydney Thunder is impossible to measure.

“She is also an important figure in our history, being the first signing the club announced and having a starring role in our WBBL|01 triumph.

“Rene was signed because of the many positive aspects it was thought she could bring to Thunder. Anyone who knows her will testify she exceeded all expectations.”

Thunder narrowly lost to Melbourne Renegades, the match finishing Renegades 151 - 6 Thunder 122 - 7.