About
Biography
Mithali Raj, born on December 3, 1982, in Jodhpur, India, is a former Indian cricketer and one of the leading figures in women's cricket. Renowned for her exceptional batting skills and leadership qualities, she made her international debut in 1999 at the age of 16, quickly establishing herself as a key player for the Indian women's team. Over her career spanning nearly two decades, Raj achieved numerous records, including being the highest run-scorer in women's One Day Internationals (ODIs).
Throughout her illustrious career, Mithali Raj captained the Indian women's cricket team in multiple World Cups and T20 World Cups, including leading the team to the finals of the Women's Cricket World Cup in 2017. She holds the record for the most fifties in ODIs, further underscoring her consistency and prowess as a top-order batswoman. Raj's contributions to the sport extend beyond her statistics; she played a pivotal role in popularizing women's cricket in India, inspiring countless young athletes to pursue the game.
In recognition of her outstanding achievements, Mithali Raj has received several awards, including the prestigious Padma Bhushan in 2015 and the ICC Women's Cricketer of the Year award. She retired from international cricket in June 2021, leaving behind a legacy as one of the greatest female cricketers in history. Raj's impact on the game continues to be felt, as she remains a prominent advocate for women's sports and a source of inspiration within the cricketing community.