Mithali Raj made her international debut in June 1999, in an ODI against Ireland.
Former Indian Women’s cricket captain Mithali Raj has brought the curtain down on her storied career, announcing her decision to “retire from all forms of International Cricket” in a message on Twitter.
She took to Twitter to share a statement and thanked everyone for the “love and support”.
“I set out as a little girl on the journey to wear the India blues as representing your country is the highest honor. 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,” she said.
“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 tricolor,” she added.
She further 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.”
Thanking the BCCI, she said, “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 honor to have led the team for so many years. It shaped me as a person & hopefully helped shape Indian Women’s Cricket as well.”
Concluding her note, she wrote, “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 the world over.
Special mention to all my fans, thank you for all your love & support.”
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
Raj retires as the leading run-scorer in women’s ODIs. She appeared in 232 matches for India, scoring 7805 runs at an average of 50.68.
Earlier she announced her retirement from T20 internationals. in September 2019.Mithali Raj made her international debut in June 1999, in an ODI against Ireland. She had captained India in the ICC Women’s World Cup earlier this year in New Zealand, where India failed to qualify for the semi-finals.
“A wonderful career comes to an end! Thank you @M_Raj03 for your immense contribution to Indian cricket. Your leadership on the field has brought much glory to the National women’s team. Congratulations for illustrious innings on the field and best wishes for your next innings!”, Jay Shah, the BCCI secretary, tweeted.
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