Mithali Raj, the legendary Indian cricketer, announced her retirement from all forms of cricket on Wednesday. The official announcement of the news was done by Raj on her Twitter handle.
Raj’s statement read, “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.”
While thanking the Board of Control for Cricket of India (BCCI) officials, Raj said, “I’d like to thank the BCCI & Shri Jay Shah Sir (Honorary Secretary, BCCI) for all the support I have receoved – first as a player and then as the Captain of the Indian Women’s Cricket Team.”
While speaking about leading the Indian side, Raj said, “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.”
“Special mention to all my fans. thank you for all your love & support,” she concluded.
The illustrious 23-year old career has come to its conclusion. Raj made her international debut in 1999 against Ireland. The upper middle-order batter featured in 12 Tests, 231 ODIs and 89 T20Is.
Raj scored 699 runs and 2364 runs in the longest format and shortest format respectively. In the 50-over game, she is the highest run-scorer in the women’s international circuit with 7,805 runs.