A Life of Challenges
Lorna Jack-Brown's career as a police officer in Edinburgh has often taken her into dangerous situations. By 2018, the emotional weight of her job began to affect her deeply, leading her to step back from international cricket.
Jack-Brown, a wicketkeeper-batter, nearly walked away from the sport entirely. However, she achieved a lifelong dream by playing in Scotland’s debut appearance at the T20 World Cup. She will retire from the game as Scotland’s most-capped woman cricketer, marking the end of an 18-year journey.
At 31, her focus is now shifting toward her full-time career in law enforcement. Reflecting on her experiences, she admits that reaching this point was only possible because she sought help when she needed it. She recalls how her work in the police force took a heavy toll on her mental health. "I started avoiding training, had panic attacks, and looked for reasons to skip cricket. That's when I knew something was wrong," she explains.
Seeking help, Jack-Brown enrolled in a mental health program where it became clear that the pressures of her police work were triggering her stress. As an officer dealing with cases of domestic and sexual abuse, she has been exposed to difficult and disturbing experiences. "I've seen things I never want to see again," she says, recounting drug busts, being thrown in front of a bus, and even having knives hurled at her. Thankfully, she adds with a touch of humour, no one has ever pulled a gun on her.
Her casual recounting of these harrowing incidents could easily make for a gripping crime series, but Jack-Brown dismisses the idea of switching careers to screenwriting with a laugh. Her resilience in the face of such challenges is undeniable.
Despite these experiences, Jack-Brown emphasises that her final games of cricket are all about enjoying the moment. "We're here to play at the top level too, but that doesn't mean we're cocky or arrogant," she says, chuckling. She adds that her teammates often have a hard time grasping the intensity of her job, commenting, "Even when I try to explain it, they just look at me like, 'Sorry, what did you do?'"
Unexpected Path to the Police Force
Her path to law enforcement was entirely unexpected. After earning a degree in physical education in 2016, she spent nine months working for Carnival Cruise Lines in America, embracing the adventures that came with being a recent college graduate. “I saw places I’d never have visited otherwise, and I loved every second of it. But I’m someone who always seeks new challenges,” she shares.
Upon returning from America, a family friend suggested she consider joining the police. Jack-Brown had two options: become a volunteer special constable or apply for a paid full-time position, which required passing an exam. With her characteristic enthusiasm, she thought, “Why not?” She prepared for the exam, passed it, and officially joined the force in 2017.
For the past seven years, Jack-Brown has balanced two demanding careers. After Scotland qualified for the World Cup this year, she decided that it was time to close one chapter. “Had we not qualified, I might’ve pushed myself to stay for another tournament,” she admits. “But I’m content with my decision. I’ve got a shoulder issue and a few injuries I need to deal with before I can even think about picking up a bat again”.
A Triumphant Retirement
Though she's retiring from international cricket, Jack-Brown doesn’t plan to stop playing altogether. This break also allows her wife, who works in the police force as well, some much-needed respite. In recent years, Jack-Brown's tournaments have required her wife to use all her paid leave to care for their daughter and dogs.
Looking ahead, Jack-Brown is committed to advancing her career in law enforcement. "I aim to become a sergeant and, one day, an inspector. I'd also love to explore different units and build up as much experience as possible. It’s a 20-year journey ahead of me, but I’m excited about it," she says.
For now, she’s enjoying her final games on the cricket field, embracing her reputation as the "bad cop" on the team. She recalls a recent match where, after celebrating a wicket, South Africa’s Tazmin Brits stared at her in disbelief. Jack-Brown didn't back down, meeting Brits’ gaze with equal intensity, adding playfully, "It’s all in good fun!"
Off the field, Jack-Brown is savouring time with her parents, who travelled to Dubai to watch her play her final match. “We went to Dubai Mall, and we’re planning a desert safari next,” she says. Her parents will even join her on the flight back home after her last game.
In a moment of light heartedness, she recounts being asked if she’d give her business-class seat to her mother. “No way!” she laughed, explaining that after 15 years with the team, it’s the first time she’s ever flown business class, and she’s keeping the reward for herself. “I think I’ve earned it after not giving up.”
As Jack-Brown prepares to leave the cricket field behind, her resilience and determination continue to shine, both as a cricketer and a dedicated police officer.