New Delhi: Mithali Raj, known as the backbone of Indian women's cricket, announced retirement from international cricket on Wednesday. Raj has been playing international cricket for last 23 years. Mithali completely ruled her cricket career which lasted for more than two decades. She is the hallmark of women's cricket in India, the highest run-scorer in ODIs. She also holds the record for the most victories as a captain. 39-years-old Mithali announced her retirement on June 8 by issuing a long statement on Twitter. An emotional Mithali wrote, "I was a child when I represented my country wearing the blue jersey". "Last 23 years were one of the best moments of my life ", she added. Thank you for all your love & support over the years! I look forward to my 2nd innings with your blessing and support. pic.twitter.com/OkPUICcU4u — Mithali Raj (@M_Raj03) June 8, 2022 On the big news, BCCI lauded the Indian skipper, "Your contribution to Indian Cricket has been phenomenal. Congratulations @M_Raj03 on an amazing career. You leave behind a rich legacy. We wish you all the very best for your second innings". Your contribution to Indian Cricket has been phenomenal. Congratulations @M_Raj03 on an amazing career. You leave behind a rich legacy. We wish you all the very best for your second innings ?? pic.twitter.com/0R66EcM0gT — BCCI (@BCCI) June 8, 2022 Here's how the world react on her announcement: A wonderful career comes to an end! Thank you @M_Raj03 for your immense contribution to Indian cricket. Your leadership on the field has brought much glory to the National women's team. Congratulations for an illustrious innings on the field and best wishes for your next innings! — Jay Shah (@JayShah) June 8, 2022 One of the cricket’s legends calls time on an illustrious international career. — ICC (@ICC) June 8, 2022 Towards the end of her career, Mithali had been in form longer than some of her teammates had been alive :) That's how long she served Indian cricket. Congratulations and thank you @M_Raj03. Good luck for your second innings ?? pic.twitter.com/dQYTP8fMxd — Wasim Jaffer (@WasimJaffer14) June 8, 2022 To play for India ?? is a dream a very few fulfill and to be able represent the nation for 23 years is just amazing. You have been a pillar to Women’s Cricket in India and have shaped the lives of many young girls. Many congratulations on a phenomenal career @M_Raj03. https://t.co/jVHmMTW2YP — VVS Laxman (@VVSLaxman281) June 8, 2022 Even though you know this day is coming, you can’t help but feel a little sad ?. An amazing player that put cricket on the map especially in ?? Loved playing against you & enjoyed watching you adapt your game to keep up with all these youngsters. Enjoy the next phase Mithali xx https://t.co/QIK9nE1Vdo — Lisa Sthalekar (@sthalekar93) June 8, 2022 You’ve been a wonderful ambassador for the sport, @M_Raj03. Good luck for your future endeavours #CricketTwitter https://t.co/TU7BAdhzWq — ದೊಡ್ಡ ಗಣೇಶ್ | Dodda Ganesh (@doddaganesha) June 8, 2022
