Veteran Indian women’s cricket team top-order batter Punam Raut has officially announced her retirement from all forms of international cricket with immediate effect. The 37-year-old right-handed batter brought down the curtain on a distinguished international career that spanned over a decade, having represented India across Tests, One Day Internationals, and Twenty20 Internationals between 2009 and 2021.
Career Highlights and Statistics
Raut made significant contributions to the Indian women’s cricket team during her playing days, leaving behind impressive statistical milestones across all three formats. Her journey in international cricket showcased her immense resilience, technical proficiency at the top of the order, and remarkable temperament under pressure.
- Played 4 Tests, scoring 264 runs at an average of 44 with one century to her name.
- Accumulated 2,299 runs in 73 ODIs, featuring three centuries and 15 half-centuries at an average of 34.83.
- Contributed 719 runs across 35 T20Is with four half-centuries and a strike rate of 92.17.
- Stitched a record-breaking 320-run opening partnership with Deepti Sharma against Ireland in May 2017.
Reflecting on a Memorable Journey
Announcing her decision through a statement on social media, Raut expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to represent her country at the highest level. She acknowledged that pulling on the Indian jersey was a childhood dream turned reality and thanked everyone who supported her throughout her cricketing voyage. The experienced batter also highlighted the Mumbai Cricket Association for backing her during her formative years and laying the crucial foundations for her success.
Among her career highlights, Raut specifically pointed to the 2017 ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup as a defining chapter. Although India narrowly missed out on the trophy after losing to England by nine runs in a thrilling final, she noted that the tournament transformed women’s cricket in the country and inspired an entire generation. From her memorable debut against England in 2014 to her final Test appearance against Australia at Carrara in 2021, Raut departs the international stage as a respected figure and a pillar of modern Indian women’s cricket.
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