In a move that has reverberated throughout the cricketing world, earlier Pakistan captain Bismah Maroof has decided to hang up her boots, marking the end of a glorious 17-year international career. As Maroof bids farewell to the international stage, she remains open to continuing her cricketing journey in league cricket.
A historic career is coming to an end
Maroof, a name synonymous with excellence in women’s cricket, leaves a legacy as Pakistan’s leading run-scorer in both ODI and T20I formats. With 3369 runs in 136 ODIs and 2893 runs in 140 T20Is, Maroof’s contributions have been instrumental in shaping the Pakistan cricket narrative.
Lead from the front
Maroof’s leadership qualities shone clearly as she captained Pakistan in 96 matches and demonstrated her strategic skills and resilience on numerous occasions. Her tenure as captain, which spanned both T20Is and ODIs, reflects her commitment to the sport and her ability to inspire her team to new heights.
Words of thanks and nice memories
In her official statement, Maroof thanked her family for their unwavering support, the Pakistan Cricket Board for providing a platform and her teammates for their camaraderie on and off the field. Her journey filled with challenges and triumphs is appreciated by fans and peers alike.
“I have decided to retire from the game I love the most. It has been an incredible journey full of challenges, victories and unforgettable memories. I would like to express my gratitude to my family who have supported me in my journey as a cricketer from the beginning till now. I would also like to thank the Pakistan Cricket Board for believing in me and providing the platform to showcase my talent. Finally, I would like to thank my teammates, who have become like family to me. The camaraderie we shared on and off the field is something I will cherish forever.” Maroof said in a statement.
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From Debut to Retirement: A Remarkable Journey
Maroof’s journey began at the tender age of 15, marked by a debut against India in 2006. Over the years, she has etched her name in the annals of cricket with outstanding performances, including memorable innings against tough opposition and era-defining leadership performances.
A legacy that goes beyond the numbers
Beyond the statistics, Maroof’s legacy also extends to her pioneering role in championing women’s cricket and her unwavering commitment to the sport. Her achievements, including two gold medals at the Asian Games and multiple appearances at the World Championships, highlight her indelible impact on the sport.
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This article was first published on WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.