Mithali Raj, a veteran Indian batter and the former captain of the Indian women’s cricket team, on Monday announced retirement from all forms of international cricket after an illustrious 23-year-long career. 

“I set out as a little girl on the journey to wear the India blues as representing your country is the highest honour. The journey was full of highs and some lows,” Mithali wrote in a statement posted on twitter.

“Each event taught me something unique and the last 23 years have been the most fulfilling, challenging & 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.”

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The 39-year-old trailblazer ended her career with a record 7805 runs from 232 ODIs and an overall tally of 10868 runs. The trailblazer is also the leading-run getter in women’s cricket across formats. 

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The cricketer from Rajasthan made her India debut back in 1999. She has featured in 89 T20 Internationals and 12 Tests. She had retired from the T20 format in 2019 and her decision to retire was expected following India’s underwhelming ODI World Cup campaign in March. She was the captain in the ICC mega event.

“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 further wrote in her statement.

“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.

“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.”

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She said another journey beckons her as she would love to stay involved with the game.

“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.”