{"id":935735,"date":"2026-10-21T04:20:11","date_gmt":"2026-10-21T04:20:11","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/935735\/"},"modified":"2026-10-21T04:20:11","modified_gmt":"2026-10-21T04:20:11","slug":"cricket-world-pays-tribute-after-aussie-legend-calls-it-quits-for-move-to-be-with-family","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/935735\/","title":{"rendered":"Cricket world pays tribute after Aussie legend calls it quits for move to be with family"},"content":{"rendered":"

Cricket<\/a> fans and the Sydney Sixers are sending their well wishes to Rachael Haynes after the Aussie legend announced she’s stepping down as general manager of the Big Bash franchise for family reasons. Haynes has been in the role since early 2024 and was a driving force behind the Sixers women’s return to the WBBL finals last season and a runner-up finish for the men’s side last summer.<\/p>\n

But the former Australia international – who was part of multiple World Cups victories during her playing days – has made the decision to relocate to England with wife Leah Poulton and their son, Hugo. It comes after Poulton – herself a former Australia international – landed the role as managing director of the England women’s team last month.<\/p>\n

With Poulton set to begin her tenure with England in November, Haynes has decided to step aside from her own role to support her wife. The 39-year-old admitted it wasn’t an easy decision but is confident she leaves the Sixers in strong shape moving forward. And Haynes described it as an honour and “one of the great privileges of my career” to have led the Sydney franchise for the last two years.<\/p>\n

\"Seen<\/p>\n

Rachael Haynes (R) is stepping down as GM of the Sydney Sixers to relocate to England with her wife Leah Poulton (L) and son, Hugo. Pic: Getty<\/p>\n

“This club means so much to me, and I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve built together, on and off the field,” Haynes said in a statement. “Stepping away wasn’t an easy decision, but it’s the right one for my family as we head into an exciting new chapter overseas.<\/p>\n

“I want to thank every player, coach, staff member, and fan who has been part of this journey with me. The Sixers will always hold a special place, and I wish the club and our teams every success for the season ahead.”<\/p>\n

Hayden McIntosh has been appointed as interim GM and will head up the commercial department at the Sixers, with Greg Mail in charge of the cricket side. Haynes will officially leave her post later this month, before the Sixers’ WBBL opener on October 30.<\/p>\n

Rachael Haynes praised for leadership at Sixers<\/p>\n

“On behalf of Cricket NSW, I want to sincerely thank Rachael for her outstanding contribution to the Sydney Sixers and to our organisation as a whole,” Cricket NSW CEO Lee Germon said.<\/p>\n

“Her leadership has helped shape the club into one of the most successful and respected in the competition, and her impact will be felt for years to come.”<\/p>\n

\"Pictured<\/p>\n

Rachael Haynes (C) is set to depart after taking over as GM of the Sydney Sixers in 2024. Pic: Getty<\/p>\n

Aussie cricket fans were also quick to extend their thanks to Haynes and wish her and the family all the best in their move to England. “Massive thanks to you and Leah for everything you two have done for women’s cricket,” one fan commented about Haynes’ departure.<\/p>\n

“I’ve loved watching you play, coach and promote this sport with pride and passion. I wish Leah the best of luck as the new Managing Director of England’s women’s teams and hope you all have a safe and enjoyable time in England. Thanks again.” Another wrote: “All the best to Rachel and her family, she has done a great job on and off the field for the Sydney Sixers.”<\/p>\n

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