Out-of-favour Indian women’s team top-order batter Punam Raut on Thursday announced her retirement from all forms of international cricket with immediate effect. The 37-year-old represented India in 4 Tests, 73 ODIs, and 35 T20Is in a career spanning from 2009 to 2021.
Taking to her official Instagram account, Raut expressed her gratitude for her journey in Indian cricket.
“After much thought and reflection, I have decided to retire from international cricket in all formats of the game,” Raut shared in her post. “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.”
Gratitude to Mumbai Cricket Association
Punam Raut also acknowledged the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) for playing a vital role during her formative years as a professional cricketer.
“My sincere thanks to the Mumbai Cricket Association for believing in me during my formative years. The opportunities and guidance I received there laid the foundation of my cricketing journey,” she added.
International Career Statistics and Key Highlights
Over her 12-year international career, Punam Raut compiled impressive numbers across all three formats:
- ODIs: 2,299 runs in 73 matches, featuring 3 centuries and 15 half-centuries.
- T20Is: 719 runs in 35 matches, including 4 half-centuries.
- Tests: 264 runs in 4 matches, including a memorable century against South Africa in 2014.
Her last international appearance for India was in an ODI fixture against England in June 2021.
World Cup Success & Iconic Sportsmanship Moment
Punam Raut played a pivotal role in India’s stellar run to the 2017 Women’s World Cup final. She accumulated 381 runs throughout the tournament, including a brilliant knock of 86 runs against England in the final at Lord’s, where India narrowly missed out on the title by nine runs.
During the same 2017 World Cup, Raut scored 109 runs against Ireland and forged a world-record 320-run opening stand alongside Deepti Sharma.
She is also remembered for her exemplary sportsmanship during India’s historic pink-ball Test against Australia in 2021, where she earned widespread praise for walking off the field after edging a delivery despite the umpire giving her not out.