Punam Raut, part of India’s 2017 World Cup final run, retires from international cricket

Out-of-favour India women’s cricket 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 four Tests, 73 ODIs and 35 T20Is between 2009 and 2021.“After much thought and reflection, I have decided to retire from international cricket in all formats of the game,” Raut said in a post on her Instagram page.“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.“Wearing the India jersey was a dream that became a reality, and I will always be grateful for the trust and support I received.”Raut also thanked the Mumbai Cricket Association for its role in her development as a 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,” Raut said.She scored 2,299 runs in 73 ODIs, 719 runs in 35 T20Is and 264 runs in four Tests. Her international career included four centuries — three in ODIs and one in a Test against South Africa in 2014 — along with 15 ODI half-centuries and four in T20Is. Her last international appearance was in an ODI against England in June 2021.One of Raut’s most memorable performances came during India’s run to the 2017 Women’s World Cup final. She scored 381 runs in the tournament, including 86 against England in the final at Lord’s, which India lost by nine runs.During the same World Cup, Raut scored 109 against Ireland and shared a record 320-run opening partnership with Deepti Sharma.In 2021, Raut was part of India’s historic pink-ball Test against Australia. She scored 36 in the first innings and earned praise for walking off after edging a delivery despite being given not out.