Mithali Raj Announces Retirement: Here Is How Ex-Cricketers And Celebrities Reacted

"Thank you for all your love & support over the years. I look forward to my 2nd innings with your blessing and support," she said in her tweet along with an emotional note.

Indian Woman Cricketer Mithali Raj took the internet by shock on Wednesday as she announced her retirement from all forms of cricket. The 39-year-old Test and ODI captain bid farewell to the game after a career of 23 years. During her career, Raj was also awarded Padma Shree and Khel Ratna. 

"Thank you for all your love & support over the years. I look forward to my 2nd innings with your blessing and support," she said in her tweet along with an emotional note.

In her official statement on Twitter, she penned: "The journey was full of highs and some lows. Each event taught me something unique and the last 23 years have been the most fulfilling, challenging & enjoyable years of my life. Like all journeys, this one too must come to an end."

In reaction to her retirement, many personalities came on board to congratulate her and wish her a happy retirement. 

BCCI’s official Twitter handle posted a tweet that read, “Your contribution to Indian Cricket has been phenomenal. Congratulations @M_Raj03 on an amazing career. You leave behind a rich legacy. We wish you all the very best for your second innings.”

AAP MLA Nares Balyan also congratulated Raj and wrote, “Mithali Raj is the highest runs scorer in women's Cricket history. Awarded by Arjuna, Padma Shri & Khel Ratna awards. The GOAT. Thank you, Legend @M_Raj03 for all beautiful memories.”

Former cricketer Reema Malhotra wrote, “Congratulations @M_Raj03 on one beautiful journey. Fortunate to have played alongside. You’ve inspired oodles of young girls to take up the sport. Your name shall remained etched forever in the hearts of cricket fans. Well played, truly.”

Cricketer Suresh Raina posted, “An icon and true inspiration to so. Many M_Raj03 , congratulations for an illustrious career and for your contribution to Indian cricket. Whatever comes next for you, may it bring you the same joy and fulfillment.”

Shikhar Dhawan wrote, “Congratulations on a marvellous career @M_Raj03 🙌 You’ve been a fine example for cricketers across the country. Good luck for whatever lies ahead.”