Withers has decided not to play at all in the coming season as she redirects her energies to other interests, including the launching of a long-cherished singing career.

``I just feel I need a break,'' said Withers, who tried without success to avoid using the dreaded phrase ``burn out'' but hopes to renew her enthusiasm for a bid to make New Zealand's 2000 World Cup squad.

Cricket has been an important part of the 27-year-old Withers's life since primary school days, particularly as she is employed by New Zealand Cricket in a development role.

``In the last four years it has been a full-on commitment with the New Zealand side. I've been fortunate to go on a tour of England and play at Lord's, and to play in the World Cup,'' she said.

Withers's value to the national team was emphasised by the averages from last December's World Cup in India.

She topped the bowling figures with 13 wickets at 8.84 and was second behind Debbie Hockley for batting with 46.33. There were best performances of four for five (from 10 overs) against West Indies and 57 not out against Sri Lanka.

But Withers feels she has been ``saturated with cricket''.

Her ``love of playing for New Zealand'' was not enough to nudge her into another pre-season training programme.

``Training was up to 12 to 14 sessions a week once you combine club, provincial, and New Zealand levels. I'm the kind of person who is all or nothing,'' she said.

``I think you have certain responsibilities to your club as a New Zealand player.

``I didn't want to get in the situation where I was getting burnt out, not coming to trainings, or only putting in 50 per cent.''

Withers turned to other pursuits during the winter, writing a few songs, cutting a disc, playing some golf, and joining a three-piece band.

``It's called Sadida. I'm backing vocalist to Tracey Burnie and do a number of songs.

``It's been fun, just so cool.

``We do nightclubs, pubs, and are looking at weddings, 21st birthdays and the like,'' said Withers.