Former India women's batter Poonam Raut announced her retirement from international cricket on Thursday, bringing the curtain down on a career that spanned more than a decade.
The right-handed batter made her international debut for India in 2009, while her final appearance came in an ODI against England in June 2021.
What are Poonam Raut's career statistics across international formats?
During her time with the national side, Raut represented India across all three formats. She accumulated 2,299 runs in ODIs, 719 in T20 internationals and 264 in four Test matches. Her international career also featured four centuries, comprising three in the 50-over format and one in Tests.
How did Poonam Raut perform during the 2017 Women's World Cup?
One of the defining chapters of Poonam Raut's career came during the 2017 Women's ODI World Cup when India advanced to the final. She finished the tournament with 381 runs playing a significant part in the team's impressive campaign. Raut delivered a memorable performance in the title clash against England at Lord's, scoring 86, although India narrowly missed out on the trophy after suffering a nine-run defeat.
What historic record did Poonam Raut share with Deepti Sharma?
Earlier in the competition, Raut had also struck a century against Ireland, scoring 109. She joined forces with Deepti Sharma to put together a monumental 320-run opening stand, which went down as one of the landmark partnerships in women's ODI cricket.
What were Poonam Raut's notable achievements in Test cricket?
Poonam Raut also made her mark in the longest format, scoring a Test century against South Africa in 2014. It remains her only hundred in Test cricket. She was also part of India's historic pink-ball Test against Australia in 2021, where she contributed 36 runs in the first innings.
Why did Poonam Raut earn praise for sportsmanship during the 2021 pink-ball Test?
Raut earned widespread appreciation for her sportsmanship during that match. Although the ball had taken an edge off her bat, the umpire ruled her not out. The batter, however, chose to walk back to the pavilion on her own, earning praise for upholding the spirit of the game.
How did Poonam Raut reflect on her journey in her retirement statement?
Announcing her retirement through Instagram, Poonam Raut reflected on her journey from the streets of Mumbai to representing India on the international stage, describing the experience as a blessing. She recalled a career shaped by sacrifices, challenges, memorable victories, valuable lessons and moments she would cherish forever.
What did wearing the Indian jersey mean to Poonam Raut?
Raut said wearing the Indian jersey was more than the fulfilment of a childhood ambition; it was a privilege she always held close to her heart. She also expressed gratitude to everyone who supported her throughout her cricketing career. According to the former batter, cricket gave her far more than a profession, providing her with a sense of purpose, an identity and a family along the way.
What does Poonam Raut plan to do following her retirement?
Although Poonam Raut has called time on her international career, she remains committed to staying connected with cricket. She expressed her desire to contribute to the sport in the years ahead, stressing that while her journey as a player has come to an end, her passion for the game will continue to endure.