New Delhi:
Women cricket legend Mithali Raj has announced retirement from all formats of the game. She is the only female cricketer to surpass the 7,000 run mark in Women’s One Day International matches. She is the first player to score seven consecutive 50s in ODIs. Raj also holds the record for most half-centuries in WODIs.
“I set out as a
little girl on the journey to wear the India blues
as representing your country is the highest honour. The journey was full of highs and some lows. Each event taught me something unique and the last 23 years have been the most fulfilling, challenging & enjoyable years of my life,” wrote Mithali announcing retirement on Twitter.
“Like all journeys, this one too must come to an end. Today is the day
I retire from all forms of International Cricket.
“
“Each time I stepped on the field, I gave my very best with the intent to help India win. I will always cherish the opportunity given to me to represent the tricolour. I feel now is the perfect time to call curtains on my playing career as the team is in the capable hands of some very talented young players and the future of Indian Cricket is bright,” she added.
“I’d like to thank the BCCI & Shri Jay Shah Sir (Honorary Secretary, BCCI) for all the support I have received – first as a player and then as the Captain of the Indian Women’s Cricket Team. It was an honour to have led the team for so many years. It definitely shaped me as a person & hopefully helped shape Indian Women’s Cricket as well.”
“This journey may have ended but another one beckons as I’d love to stay involved in the game I love and contribute to the growth of Women’s Cricket in India and world over. Special mention to all my fans, thank you for all your love & support. Mithali,” Raj concluded her retirement letter.
Captioning the letter, Mithali wrote on Twitter “Thank you for all your love & support over the years! I look forward to my 2nd innings with your blessing and support.”
39-year-old Mithali is an inspiration for women cricketers all around the world as she played jaw-dropping cricket all through her career, making and breaking records one after another.
Earlier this year, India skipper Mithali Raj had became the
first woman
to appear in six World Cups and to captain 24 matches in the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup. Though, she could not lay her hands on the silverware of the World Cup in 2 decade long career.
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