Indian cricket legend Mithali Raj called time on her international cricket career, taking to social media on Wednesday to announce her retirement from all forms. The 39-year-old last made an appearance in the Indian jersey when she captained the team during the 2022 ICC Women’s ODI World Cup in New Zealand.
India were playing South Africa in that match and lost by 3 wickets, and were eliminated from the tournament. She had already retired from T20Is in 2019 and is still India’s highest run-getter in the format. She made her debut for India in 1999 as a 16-year-old and went on to become one of the all-time greats in the game.
She represented India in 12 Tests, 232 ODIs and 89 T20Is and was also the captain that led them to the finals of two World Cups. Mithali hinted that she would perhaps be open to coaching assignments or whatever role the Indian cricket board deemed suitable for a player of her calibre.
Mithali 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.””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,” she wrote. “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.
Thank you for all your love & support over the years!
— Mithali Raj (@M_Raj03) June 8, 2022
I look forward to my 2nd innings with your blessing and support. pic.twitter.com/OkPUICcU4u