Punam Raut announced her retirement from international cricket on Thursday, ending a 12-year career that included a memorable run to the 2017 Women’s World Cup final and India's first-ever pink-ball Test. The 37-year-old batter made the decision with immediate effect, as confirmed in a post on her Instagram page.
Raut represented India across all formats, playing four Tests, 73 One-Day Internationals, and 35 Twenty20 Internationals between 2009 and 2021. She scored 2,299 runs in ODIs, 719 runs in T20Is, and 264 runs in Tests. Her tally includes four centuries—three in ODIs and one in Tests, along with 15 half-centuries in ODIs and four in T20Is.
“After much thought and reflection, I have decided to retire from international cricket in all formats of the game,” Raut said. “Representing India has been the greatest honour of my life. Cricket has been more than just a sport — it has shaped my character, taught me resilience, and given me memories that I will cherish forever. Every time I wore the India jersey, I did so with immense pride and gratitude.”
Her final international appearance came in June 2021 during an ODI against England. She was also part of India’s historic pink-ball Test against Australia later that year, where she scored 36 in the first innings and earned praise for walking off after edging a delivery despite being given not out.
Raut’s most notable tournament was the 2017 Women’s World Cup, where she scored 381 runs. She made 86 in the final at Lord’s, where India lost to England by nine runs. Earlier in the tournament, she scored 109 against Ireland and was involved in a record 320-run opening partnership with Deepti Sharma.
“My sincere thanks to the Mumbai Cricket Association for believing in me during my formative years,” Raut added. “The opportunities and guidance I received there laid the foundation of my cricketing journey.”
Her retirement marks the end of a steady and dependable presence at the top of India’s batting order, known for resilience and composure. Despite being out of favour in recent years, Raut’s contributions spanned over a decade, bridging several generations of Indian women’s cricket.
The announcement follows a period of transition for the India women’s team, as new talent pushes for spots and the squad prepares for upcoming international fixtures. Raut leaves behind a career that included four centuries and significant partnerships, as well as moments of sportsmanship, such as her walk in the pink-ball Test.
She shared her decision publicly on Instagram, expressing gratitude for the trust and support she received throughout her career.
According to Yahoo Sports.
