Sana Mir Announces Retirement From International Cricket

Former Pakistan skipper Sana Mir, on Saturday, announced her retirement from cricket, thus bringing down curtains on her illustrious 15-year career. Having made her ODI debut against Sri Lanka in December 2005, she played her last ODI was against Bangladesh in November 2019. After her last ODI, she took a break from international cricket to recalibrate her future objectives and targets.

Sana Mir represented Pakistan in 120 wickets, picking 151 wickets in addition to scoring 1,630 runs.  She is one of the nine women cricketers to have taken 100 wickets and scored 1,000 runs in ODIs. In October 2018, she also moved to number one spot in ICC Women’s Rankings for ODI Bowlers.

She also played 106 T20Is and took 89 wickets while scoring 802 runs. The legendary cricketer led Pakistan in 72 ODIs, winning 26 and losing 45. She also led her country in 65 T20Is, winning 26 and losing 36. Sana Mir captained Pakistan at two World Cups (2013 and 2017) and five ICC Women’s T20 World Cups (2009, 2010, 2012, 2014 and 2016) and was named captain of Wisden’s women’s team of the decade.

“Last few months have provided me with an opportunity to contemplate. I feel it is the right time for me to move on. I believe I have contributed to the best of my ability for my country and the sport,” Sana Mir said in her statement on Saturday.

“During my cricket journey, I have met and built strong friendships and bonding with some amazing cricketers in women’s cricket. Listening about their stories and philosophies have not only made me a tougher and stronger athlete but have also taught me great things about life, which are beyond yourself or the sport or winning and losing,” she added.

PCB Chief Executive Wasim Khan lavished praise on Sana Mir, saying that she “broke the glass ceiling for women cricketers in the country” and will remain a source of inspiration for many in the country.

“On behalf of Pakistan cricket, I congratulate Sana Mir on a highly successful career. She has been the face of Pakistan women’s cricket for many years and the real source of inspiration for the young generation of women cricketers,” Wasim said.

“Through her determination and passion, Sana broke the glass ceiling for women cricketers in the country. Through her performances, she not only improved the profile of women’s cricket in Pakistan but also enhanced the image of Pakistan globally.

“Sana is a true legend of women’s cricket who attracted, inspired and motivated young women athletes. Moving forward, I am sure she will continue to contribute positively to women’s cricket,” he added.

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