Former India captain Mithali Raj’s illustrious career was celebrated at the BCCI Naman Awards 2026 held on March 15 in New Delhi, where the 43-year-old received the BCCI Lifetime Achievement Award for Women. The honour, the highest conferred by the Board of Control for Cricket in India on former players, recognised her exceptional contribution to the growth and success of women’s cricket in the country.
Mithali’s international journey began with her ODI debut against Ireland at Milton Keynes on June 26, 1999, marking the start of a career that spanned more than two decades. As captain, she led India to the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup finals in 2005 and 2017. On both occasions, India finished as runners-up, losing by 98 runs to Australia in 2005 and by 9 runs to England in 2017.
Her record in ODI cricket remains unparalleled. Mithali amassed 7,805 runs at an average of 50.68 in 211 innings across 232 matches, registering 64 half-centuries and seven centuries. She also holds the record for the longest career in women’s ODIs, lasting 22 years and 274 days, and set a milestone with seven consecutive half-centuries between February 7 and June 24, 2017. In addition to her batting achievements, she claimed eight wickets with her part-time leg spin at an average of 11.37 and an economy rate of 3.19 from 10 innings.
Her consistency extended across formats. Mithali made her T20I debut against England at Derby on August 5, 2006, going on to score 2,364 runs at an average of 37.52 in 84 innings from 89 matches, including 17 half-centuries. In Test cricket, she debuted on January 14, 2002, against England in Lucknow and accumulated 699 runs at 43.68 from 19 innings in 12 matches. Her Test career featured four half-centuries and a double-century against England at Taunton in August 2002. She retired from international cricket on June 8, 2022, finishing with an aggregate of 10,868 runs, the highest tally in women’s international cricket.
Beyond her achievements on the field, Mithali played a major role in enhancing the visibility of women’s cricket in India, contributing to increased fan engagement and broader broadcast coverage. After her retirement, she mentored Gujarat Giants during the initial seasons of the Women’s Premier League in 2023 and 2024 before stepping away ahead of the 2025 edition. She has also been active as a commentator with Star Sports, offering expert analysis during major tournaments.
The Lifetime Achievement Award stands as recognition not only of Mithali Raj’s accomplishments but also of her lasting influence on the development of women’s cricket in India. As the sport continues to grow, her legacy remains a benchmark for future generations.
