Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Sunday congratulated pace legend Jhulan Goswami following her retirement from international cricket.
Former India captain Jhulan Goswami has announced her retirement from international cricket following the conclusion of the ODI series against England. In an international career spanning over two decades – the second longest in women’s international cricket – Jhulan, who made her debut in 2002, represented India in 12 Tests, 204 ODIs and 68 T20Is picking 355 wickets across formats.
Jhulan, who went on to play five ODI World Cups – 2005, 2009, 2013, 2017 and 2022 – remains the leading wicket-taker in the history of the Women’s World Cups. She also remains the only pacer in women’s cricket to have 250-plus wickets in ODIs.
Sourav Ganguly, President, BCCI said in a statement by board: “With Jhulan announcing her retirement from international cricket, an era has come to an end. She took immense pride in representing India and always put her best foot forward as she served Indian cricket with distinction. She was the leader of India’s bowling attack and her feats will continue to inspire the present and budding cricketers. Her contribution to the game has been monumental. While her inspiring presence on the field will be missed, her achievements will continue to motivate the upcoming cricketers.”
Jay Shah, Honorary Secretary, BCCI also said: “Jhulan Goswami is one of the greatest to have ever graced the game. She, with her exceptional bowling skills, led India’s bowling attack with elan for numerous years and will remain a benchmark for the young cricketers who wish to represent the country at the highest level. As she embarks on a new journey and starts a new inning, I wish her all the very best.”
Arun Singh Dhumal, Treasurer, BCCI said: “As women’s cricket continued to grow in the country, Jhulan Goswami, along with Mithali Raj, remained at the forefront. Jhulan never shied away from going that extra mile, be it with her performances on the field or be it for the preparations to seek excellence. Her stellar achievements and tremendous work ethics were there for everyone to see and her outstanding contributions towards our game will continue to inspire her teammates and budding cricketers.”
Coming to her final match, India was bundled out for 169 after being put to bat first by England. Half-centuries from Smriti Mandhana (50) and Deepti Sharma (68) helped Women in Blue avoid humiliation. Pacer Kate Cross (4/26) was England’s leading bowler. Freya Kemp (2/24) and Sophie Ecclestone (2/27) also did great for England.
Chasing 170, a brilliant spell from Renuka Singh (4/29) had reduced England to 65/7. Knocks from captain Amy Jones (28) and Charlotte Dean (47) took England close to a victory, but a Deepti Sharma ran out Dean, who was at the non-striker’s end to seal a 16-run win for India. Jhulan (2/30) and Rajeshwari Gayakwad (2/38) also starred in India’s win.
With this victory, Team India has sealed the series 3-0. They have won their first series against England since 1999.
