Mithali Raj thanks PM Modi for penning down an appreciation letter for her

New Delhi: Former India women cricket captain Mithali Raj on Saturday shared a letter from Prime Minister Narendra Modi on her social media in which the PM heaped praise on her glorious career saying her success is "beyond statistics and records."

Sharing a letter on her social media and Mithali said: "It’s a matter of singular honour and pride when one receives such warm encouragement from our Hon'ble PM, who is a role model and inspiration for millions including me. I am overwhelmed by this thoughtfully worded acknowledgment of my contribution to cricket.

"I will treasure this forever. I feel inspired and encouraged for my next chapter and will strive hard to live up to the expectations of our PM in contributing towards the growth of Indian sports."

In a letter, dated June 29, PM wrote: "A few weeks ago, you announced your retirement from all formats of cricket, leaving fans very disheartened. First and foremost, I join crores of Indians in congratulating you on an extremely successful career, in which you made the nation proud throughout."

The Indian veteran has announced her retirement after a glorious international career spanning nearly 23 years last month.

"You have served Indian cricket for over two decades. You are blessed with the necessary talent, tenacity and transformative edge needed to excel over the years. This zeal has not only helped you, but also inspired several other budding sportsperson," the letter read.

Mithali ended her international career with 7805 ODI runs in 232 matches, at an average just over 50. She also scored 2364 runs in 89 T20Is, as well as 699 runs in 12 Tests, including a century and four half-centuries.

She captained India to the final of the ICC Women's World Cup 2017, and also holds the record for the most matches captained in Women's World Cups, breaking Australian legend Belinda Clark's record during the women's World Cup 2022 in March.

"One way to view your career is through the numbers. During your long sporting career, there are many records that have been broken as well as created by you. These accomplishments, including you being the top run-scorer in women's international cricket, speak volumes about your abilities.

"At the same time, your success is beyond statistics and records. You trend-setter, an athlete, who has broken many a glass ceiling and a phenomenal source of motivation for others.

"You are blessed with exceptional leadership skills. You have mentored and groomed countless cricketers during your captaincy. I can not forget the 2017 World Cup final in which our team came very close to victory. During those tense moments, your calm and composed demeanour was appreciated by everyone.

"When you shared your retirement announcement on social media, you linked it with your 'second innings'. It is an example of the wonderful attitude that kept you at the top of your game for such a long time. It shows you are already raring to take your existing contributions and passions to the next level and give back to society.

"I wish you all the best in anything that you choose to do. You may not be playing for India anymore, but I hope you will continue to contribute towards Indian sports in the times to come," it read.(UNI)