On 26 June, Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to Mithali Raj and sent the iconic former India captain, who had earlier announced her retirement, her best wishes.
In Sunday’s episode of ‘Mann Ki Baat’, PM Modi Mithali has been called “one of the most talented cricketers of India”.
PM Modi said, “Her retirement from cricket has emotionally affected many sports lovers. Mithali has not only been an extraordinary player but has also been an inspiration to many players. I wish Mithali all the best for her future.” Am.”
One of the all-time greats of cricket, Mithali Raj had revealed earlier in June that she was quitting all forms of international cricket. During her illustrious career spanning 23 years, she contributed immensely in popularizing the women’s sport.
She is also the leading run scorer in all formats of women’s cricket with a total of 10,868 runs.
The 39-year-old played 89 T20 Internationals and however managed to score a double century by playing only 12 Tests during her long career, making her the only Indian female cricketer to do so in the longer format.
Mithali Raj, who made her debut at the age of 16, ended an illustrious 23-year career in which she holds the record for most performances, most runs scored and most successful women’s captains.
Since making her debut against Ireland on 26 June 1999, Mithali Raj has played 12 Tests, 232 ODIs and 89 T20 Internationals for the country. The 39-year-old scored a total of 10,868 runs in 333 international games across three forms. Belinda Clark is second on the list with 83 wins but has led India to a record 89 wins in 155 ODIs.
Well done Mithu on 15th July – A Biopic on Mithali Raj – Will be released in cinemas. The sports drama is produced by Viacom18 Studios and directed by Srijit Mukherjee.
As real slice-of-life stories emerge and female-oriented cinema gains more traction at the box office, the Hindi film industry has turned to the distinctive genre of women’s and sports films to attract theater audiences. Saina, starring Parineeti Chopra and based on the life of badminton player Saina Nehwal, was released by T-Series in March 2021.
(with PTI inputs)