'Respect, Gratitude For Queen,' Fans React To Mithali Raj's Retirement From Intl Cricket

Veteran Indian Cricketer Mithali Raj, on June 8, announced her retirement from all forms of international cricket. Mithali retires as the leading run-scorer in Women’s ODIs. She represented India in over 200 matches and scored 7,805 runs.

“Today is the day I retire from all forms of international cricket," the Indian cricketer said in her statement and she further added, “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.”

The batter shared a photo of the statement on her social media account and wrote, “Thank you for all your love & support over the years! I look forward to my second innings with your blessing and support.”

Fans of the cricketer are overcome with emotions as the wonderful player has called time on her career. Famous cricketers like VVS Laxman, Shikhar Dhawan and others shared her statement and wrote sweet messages for her.

Fans React To Mithali Raj Retirement

Actor Taapsee Pannu, who will star in Mithali's biopic Shabaash Mithu, took to Instagram and wrote, "Youngest ODI captain for the Indian cricket team. The only Indian cricketer to captain the team in 4 world cups and reach finals twice! Youngest cricketer to score 200 in a test match. Highest scoring Indian cricketer in the debut international match. The only Indian cricketer to score 7 consecutive 50s in ODI... 23 years from hustle to glory. Some personalities and their achievements are gender agnostic. You changed the game, now it’s our turn to change the perspective! Etched in history OUR CAPTAIN forever @mithaliraj! On to the next innings of life."

A fan wrote, “Thank you for putting India on the map in women’s cricket .” Meanwhile, another one said they are thankful to her for her contributions as a player. The user wrote, “Thank you for everything Captain! Best wishes for your new journey !! We love you, Queen!”

“Congratulations to one of the finest ambassadors of the game and the flag bearer of Women's cricket, #MithaliRaj on what has been a wonderful career full of many firsts and world records for Indian cricket. My best wishes for your second innings,” a fan wrote for the player.

Another one wrote, “One of the very best sportspersons this country ever produced. There wouldn't be a Smriti or Shafali without Mithali. Mithali Raj's name will always shine bright in Indian sports history. What she has done for the game is unparalleled. Respect & gratitude for the queen.”

A user lauded the cricketer and said that she inspired millions to make a career in cricket with her performance. “A reason & inspiration for many young girls in sub-continent to pick up a game of cricket as a career option. Mithali you have been immense for all these years. Wish you happy life after ending your professional playing career. Go Well, Mithali,” the user wrote.

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