India’s Mithali Raj retires from International Cricket
In a lengthy message on Twitter, Mithali Raj announced her retirement from all forms of international cricket.
The Indian cricketer wrote:
“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.”
Although she did not say what her future plans will be, Mithali stated that she would like to still be involved in 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.
“It was an honour to have led the team for so many years. It definitely shaped me as a person and 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.”
Thank you for all your love & support over the years!
I look forward to my 2nd innings with your blessing and support. pic.twitter.com/OkPUICcU4u— Mithali Raj (@M_Raj03) June 8, 2022
Mithali Raj is one of the most celebrated cricketers.
During her international career, she played 12 Tests, 232 ODIs and 89 T20Is.
Her last appearance for India came during the World Cup earlier in 2022 against South Africa, which India lost by three wickets.
In ODIs, Mithali amassed 7,805 runs, with an average of 50.68.
In Tests, she aggregated 699 runs at an average of 43.68 with a century and four half-centuries. And in T20Is, Mithali scored 2,364 runs at an average of 37.52.
Her overall tally of 10,868 runs made her the leading run-scorer in women’s international cricket, and no batter has scored more than her 7,805 in women’s ODIs.
Mithali was also the first to score seven fifties in a row in women’s ODIs, where her tally of 64 is the highest.
As Mithali Raj announced an end to her 23-year international career, many honoured her.
The BCCI said: “Your contribution to Indian Cricket has been phenomenal.
“Congratulations Mithali Raj on an amazing career. You leave behind a rich legacy.
“We wish you all the very best for your second innings.”
Former India batsman Wasim Jaffer tweeted:
“Towards the end of her career, Mithali had been in form longer than some of her teammates had been alive.
“That’s how long she served Indian cricket.
“Congratulations and thank you Mithali Raj. Good luck for your second innings.”
Many of the IPL teams also congratulated Mithali on an illustrious career.