Hockey: Black Sticks top goal scorer Anita McLaren retires

Anita McLaren celebrates after the women's Black Sticks won gold at the Commonwealth Games. Photo / Greg Bowker

The women's Black Sticks top goal scorer Anita McLaren has announced her retirement.

She's called time on her international hockey career following 271 appearances and 105 goals.

Known for her explosive pace, ability to sniff out a chance and tenacity, McLaren finishes three caps shy of Emily Gaddum's New Zealand record of 274.

The 30-year-old took a break from hockey after the Rio Olympics, before returning at the start of the year to help guide the Black Sticks to Commonwealth Games gold.

I'd like to take this time to announce my retirement from international hockey. I would like to thank everybody for all the support and encouragement throughout my career you have all given me so many memories I will cherish forever. Thank you x pic.twitter.com/awVIX3ml0s

— Anita McLaren (Punt) (@anita_punt) October 17, 2018