Picture Credit: Twitter
India’s legendary women’s cricketer Jhulan Goswami formally announced retirement from all forms of cricket on Sunday. Although everyone knew that the veteran pacer is playing her last game during the third ODI between India and England at Lord’s, the 39-year-old confirmed that she won’t walk out on the field to represent the country anymore. Notably, the right-arm quick who made her debut in 2002, retires having represented India in over 250 international matches.
Goswami penned a heartfelt note while announcing her departure from the Indian women’s cricket circuit. The former Indian pacer shared a quote from Ernest Hemingway that reads, “It is good to have an end to journey toward, but it is the journey that matters in the end.” She further stated that the journey has been most satisfying for her. Goswami then thanked the people involved in making her a superstar. The 39-year-old signed off by saying that even after retiring, she won’t be too far from the game.
“So, the day has finally arrived! Like every journey has an end, my cricket journey of over 20 years ends today as I announce my retirement from all forms of cricket. As Ernest Hemingway said. "It is good to have an end to journey toward, but it is the journey that matters in the end. For me, this journey has been the most satisfying. It has been exhilarating, thrilling to say the least adventurous. I have had the honour of donning the India jersey for over two decades and serving my country at the best of my abilities. There is a sense of pride every time I hear the National Anthem before a match,” wrote Goswami in her note she shared on social media.
“Cricket has given me several gifts over the years, the greatest and the best without doubt has been the people I have met along this journey The friends I made, my competitors, teammates, the journalists I interacted with, match officials, board administrators and people who loved watching me play.”
“I have always been honest as a cricketer and hope I have been able to contribute to the growth of women’s cricket in India and the world. I hope I have been successful in inspiring the next generation of girls to play this beautiful game,” she added.
Notably, the veteran pacer is expected to take a mentorship role with Bengal's Ranji Team and also join hands with one of the ten Indian Premier League (IPL) franchises.