Jhulan Goswami received congratulations from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Sunday for a distinguished career in international cricket. Following the end of the ODI series against England at Lord's on Saturday, which India won 3-0, Jhulan, who also served as captain of India during her 20-year international career, announced her retirement from international cricket.
Jhulan, who made her international debut against England in Chennai in 2002, had the second-longest women's international cricket career of nearly two decades. She played for India in 12 Tests, 204 ODIs, and 68 T20Is, taking 355 wickets overall, the most of any bowler in the sport.
"An era has ended with Jhulan's announcement of her retirement from international cricket. She always put her best foot forward while serving Indian cricket with distinction and takes great delight in representing her country."
"Her accomplishments will continue to motivate current and aspiring cricketers. She was the captain of India's bowling attack. Her impact on the game has been enormous. Although she won't be playing on the field anymore, her accomplishments will continue to inspire cricket players in the future "Sourav Ganguly, president of the BCCI, said.
Jhulan, who competed in five ODI World Cups (2005, 2009, 2013, 2017 and 2022), continues to hold the record for most wickets taken in Women's Cricket World Cup history with 43. With 255 wickets overall, she continues to be the only pacer in women's cricket to have taken 250 or more wickets in ODIs.
"One of the best players to ever grace the game was Jhulan Goswami. She spearheaded India's bowling attack with elan for many years thanks to her remarkable bowling abilities, and she will continue to serve as a role model for future cricketers who aspire to play for their nation at the top level. I wish her the best of luck as she begins a new journey and inning "Jay Shah, BCCI's Honorary Secretary, remarked
Jhulan was given a guard of honour as she came out to bat in her farewell international match against England at Lord's, but left-arm bowler Freya Kemp promptly clean bowled her. She returned with the ball to eliminate Alice Capsey as England's top-order broke down.
She ended her international career on a good note by castleing Kate Cross with her 10,001st ODI delivery.
"Jhulan Goswami and Mithali Raj remained in the forefront as women's cricket developed in the nation. Jhulan never shied away from going above and beyond, whether it was for her on-field accomplishments or the preparations to pursue perfection."
According to BCCI Treasurer Arun Singh Dhumal, "Her exceptional contributions to our game will continue to encourage her teammates and aspiring cricketers. Her stellar achievements and tremendous work ethic were there for everyone to observe."
After India defeated Australia in the one-day international at Lord's by 16 runs, Jhulan was carried off the field by the young bowler Meghna Singh. She afterwards led her teammates in a lap of honour around the famous stadium.