"The most fulfilling years of my life": Mithali Raj retires from international cricket

Raj, 39, made 333 appearances for India across cricket's three formats. She took part in 12 Test matches, making one century, while in the one-day international arena she accumulated 7,805 runs

Sam Morshead | 08/06/2022 at 09:46

Mithali Raj has announced her retirement from all forms of international cricket.

The India batter has been a focal point of the national side for more than two decades, having made her debut for her country in 1999.

Raj, 39, made 333 appearances for India across cricket's three formats. She took part in 12 Test matches, making one century, while in the one-day international arena she accumulated 7,805 runs at an average of 50.68.

A further 2,364 runs came in T20Is, with 17 half-centuries and a top score of 97 not out.

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^{Mithali Raj has retired from international cricket [Getty Images]}

Raj led her country from 2004, becoming an inspirational figure to two generations of female Indian cricketers.

In a statement, she said: "I set out as a little girl on a journey to wear the India blues, as representing your country is the highest honour.

"The journey was full of highs and some lows. Each event taught me something unique and the last 23 years have been the most fulfilling, challenging and enjoyable years of my life.

"Like all journeys, this one too must come to an end.

"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."