Mithali Raj yesterday, on 8th June, announced her retirement from all formats of International cricket after representing India for more than twenty-three years. She has been the captain of the Indian Women’s Team since 2004 until her retirement in 2022. Raj played as a right-handed batswoman and occasionally bowls as a right-arm leg-break bowler. She debuted first for the Indian team for a One Day International on 6th June 1999 against Ireland.
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Raj has several International and National records in her entire career. She became the first woman ever to score 7000 runs in Women’s One Day International games and consecutive half-centuries in ODIs. In 2018 she became the first Indian player in men and women to score 2000 runs in T20I, during the Women’s T20 Asia Cup. Mithali received the Arjuna Award in 2003, Padma Shri in 2015, and Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna last year.
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National pride Mithali Raj wrote, “Thank you for all your love & support over the years! I look forward to my 2nd innings with your blessing and support.” on her Instagram caption. The internet came together to appreciate her for doing so much for the country.
Jay Shah, secretary of BCCI, tweeted, “A wonderful career comes to an end! Thank you @M_Raj03 your immense contribution to India cricket. Your leadership on-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.”
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Indian Cricket Legend, Sachin Tendulkar said, “Congratulations on a stellar career Mithali Raj! Your contribution to Indian Women’s Cricket over the last 23 years has been immense and you have been an inspiration to young girls wanting to play for India. Wishing you the very best for all your future endeavors.”
Suresh Raina also tweeted in her appreciation, “An icon and a true inspiration to so Many @M_Raj03, congratulations for an illustrious career and for your contribution to Indian cricket. Whatever comes next for you, may it bring you the same joy and fulfillment.”
Indian Cricketer and Punjab Kings batsman Shikhar Dhawan tweeted, “Congratulations on a marvelous career @M_Raj03 You’ve been a fine example for cricketers across the country. Good luck for whatever lies ahead.”
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