Picture Credit: Twitter
Former Indian women's cricket team captain Mithali Raj opened up on feeling overwhelmed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's comments on her contribution to women’s cricket in the country. The Prime Minister extended his good wishes to the Indian cricket stalwart after she announced her retirement from international cricket.
The PM drafted a letter saying the player has been an inspiration for countless athletes across the country. “It's a matter of singular honour & pride when one receives such warm encouragement from our Hon'ble PM Shri @narendramodi ji, who is a role model & inspiration for millions including me. I am overwhelmed by this thoughtfully worded acknowledgement of my contribution to cricket,” Mithali tweeted.
“I will treasure this forever. I feel inspired and encouraged for my next chapter and will strive hard to live up to the expectations of our Hon'ble PM in contributing towards the growth of Indian sports,” she wrote on her Twitter handle.
In the letter to Mithali Raj, the PM said, “You have served Indian cricket for over two decades. You are blessed with the necessary talent, tenacity and transformative edge needed to excel over the years. This zeal has not only helped you but also inspired several other budding sportspersons.”
The letter further read, “One way to view your career is through the numbers. During your long sporting career, there are many records that have been broken as well as created by you.
These accomplishments, including you being the top run-scorer in women's international cricket, speak volumes about your abilities. But, at the same time, your success is beyond statistics and records. You are a trend-setter, an athlete, who has broken many a glass ceiling and a phenomenal source of motivation for others.”
Mithali Raj ended her magnificent career after scoring 7805 ODI runs in 232 matches at an average of over 50. She also amassed 2364 runs in 89 T20Is, as well as 699 runs in 12 Tests, including a century and four half-centuries. She made her debut on 26 June 1999 against Ireland. Three years later she bagged her Test cap against England followed by her T20I debut against the Three Lions.