Indian cricketer Mithali Raj announced her decision to retire from all forms of International Cricket on Wednesday.
She revealed it on Twitter, and thanked everyone for the “love and support”.
Mithali, 39, 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.”
Mithali retires as the leading run-getter in women’s ODIs. She represented India in 232 matches, scoring 7805 runs at an average of 50.68. Her overall tally of 10,868 runs made her the leading run-scorer in women’s international cricket.
She had earlier announced her retirement from T20 internationals. Mithali 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.
She is the only Indian woman to score a double century in Tests. Her score of 214 (v England in 2002) is the second-highest individual score in women’s Tests.
“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 in her statement.
“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.
“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,” She said.
She is the only Indian captain, male or female to have led India in two World Cup finals (2005 and 2017).
“Thank you for all your love & support over the years! I look forward to my 2nd innings with your blessing and support,” tweeted Mithali.
