The Journey Has Been A Prolonged One With Highs And Lows - Rumeli Dhar Announces Retirement From International Cricket
Indian all-rounder Rumeli Dhar has confirmed her retirement from international cricket at the age of 38. She last played for the national team back in 2018 during the T20I tri-series between India, Australia, and England.
Dhar is a seam-bowling all-rounder who was part of the 2005 ODI World Cup squad that made a run to the finals before falling to Australia. Having made her debut back in 2003, she brings down the curtains after playing for 19 years.
“23 years of my cricket career that started from Shyamnagar in West Bengal, has finally come to an end as I announce my retirement from all forms of cricket. The journey has been a prolonged one with highs and lows. The high was representing the Indian Women’s cricket team, playing the World Cup final in 2005 as well as leading the Women in Blue.”
“A string of injuries plagued my career but I always come back stronger to make it count. Today as I bid adieu to the sport I have always loved, I thank my family, the BCCI, my friends, the teams I represented (Bengal, Railways, Air India, Delhi, Rajasthan and Assam) for believing in my abilities and giving me the opportunity to play for their teams. They helped pave my way towards the India team,” she wrote on Instagram.
“Like all journeys, mine will end as a cricketer today” – Rumeli Dhar
Dhar was the joint-highest wicket-taker in the 2009 T20 World Cup where she took 6 wickets in four matches coming at an excellent economy of 4.78. Injuries plagued her career but her longevity makes her stand out among her peers.
“Each match in this prolonged career taught me a lesson that will help in my second innings. Like all journeys, mine will end as a cricketer today, but I promise to be associated with the sport and help nurture young talents in the country, giving back to the game in every way possible.”
“Thanking everyone for me who has been there through all my ups and downs, everyone who has loved me, my game, pushed me when I needed the most, cheered me at my worst, laughed with me, scolded me when I needed. I owe each one of you for everything I am today. Today I am running out of the words to express the feeling that is within. Just want to thank everyone for being there for me…and giving me so much love all these years!” she added.
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India Women National Cricket Team
