Mithali Raj, one of the most celebrated women’s cricketers of all time, announced her retirement from all forms of international cricket on June 8, 2022, in a social media post. Raj recently led the Indian team in the ICC Women’s World Cup 2022 in New Zealand.
Having started playing for India in 1999 as a 16-year-old, Mithali grew to become one of the all-time greats of the game. She represented India in 12 Tests, 232 ODIs, and 89 T20Is in all. She also captained India with a great record, including taking the team to the finals of the two World Cup tournaments in 2005 and 2017.
She made 699 Test runs including the highest score of 214 and four half-centuries to her name. In ODIs, she made 7805 runs and is the most run-getter in the format with 7 centuries and 64 fifties to her name, including the best of 125*. She is the first player to score seven consecutive 50s in ODIs.
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In T20Is, she made 2364 runs with 17 fifties and a best score of 97*.
Here is the statement in which she announced her retirement:
"I set out as a little girl on the journey to wear the India blue 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 most fulfilling, challenging and enjoyable years of my life.
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 the Indian cricket in bright.
I'd like to thank the BCCI and Shri Jay Shah sir (Honorary Secretary, BCCI) for all the support I have received - first as a player and then as Captain of the Indian Women's Cricket Team.
It was an honor 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 i'd love to stay involved in the game and 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"
