<p>India's Test and One-Day International skipper Virat Kohli, who was conferred with Khel Ratna award in 2018, has congratulated all the winners of the National Sports Awards 2021. The versatile cricketer said that their excellence will inspire others to pursue their sporting passion.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Indian President Ram Nath Kovind presented the Sports and Adventure Awards 2021, which included Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Awards-2021, Dronacharya Awards-2021, Arjuna Awards-2021, Dhyan Chand Awards-2021, Rashtriya Khel Protsahan Puruskar-2021, Maulana Abul Kalam Azad Trophy-2021 and Tenzing Norgay National Adventure Awards-2020 on Saturday (November 13).&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-neeraj-chopra-to-mithali-raj-list-of-athletes-who-won-major-dhyan-chand-khel-ratna-award-in-2021-429094">From Neeraj Chopra to Mithali Raj: List of athletes who won Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award in 2021</a></strong></p>

<p>When we talk about cricketers, Mithali Raj received Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award, on the other hand, opening batter Shikhar Dhawan was awarded the prestigious Arjuna Award.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Olympic gold medallist Neeraj Chopra, wrestler Ravi Kumar, para shooter Avani Lekhara, footballer Sunil Chhetri and Mithali were among the 12 athletes who received Khel Ratna. Meanwhile, Dhawan, Tokyo 2020 Paralympics silver medallist Bhavina Patel were among the 35 athletes who received the prestigious Arjuna Award.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/women-in-sport-are-powerful-catalysts-of-change-says-mithali-raj-after-winning-khel-ratna-award-429148">'Women in sport are powerful catalysts of change,' says Mithali Raj after winning Khel Ratna Award</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A great moment of pride and congratulations to all the Khel Ratna, Arjuna, Dronacharya and Adventure award winners. Your excellence will inspire so many people to pursue their sporting passion. <a href="https://t.co/VybwDZy0vf">pic.twitter.com/VybwDZy0vf</a></p>
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli/status/1459786453068615682?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 14, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Kohli, who recently led his team in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2021, had stepped down as the captain of India's Twenty20 team. Although, he will continue to lead the team in One-Day Internationals and Test formats.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India's T20 World Cup was unsuccessful as India bowed out of the tournament from the group stage. In the Super 12 stage, India lost to Pakistan (by 10 wickets) and New Zealand (eight wickets), then registered big wins against Afghanistan, Scotland and Namibia but it was not enough to book a semi-final berth.&nbsp;</p>


India's Test and One-Day International skipper Virat Kohli, who was conferred with Khel Ratna award in 2018, has congratulated all the winners of the National Sports Awards 2021.

India's Test and One-Day International skipper Virat Kohli, who was conferred with Khel Ratna award in 2018, has congratulated all the winners of the National Sports Awards 2021. The versatile cricketer said that their excellence will inspire others to pursue their sporting passion. Indian President Ram Nath Kovind presented the Sports and Adventure Awards 2021, which included Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Awards-2021, Dronacharya Awards-2021, Arjuna Awards-2021, Dhyan Chand Awards-2021, Rashtriya Khel Protsahan Puruskar-2021, Maulana Abul Kalam Azad Trophy-2021 and Tenzing Norgay National Adventure Awards-2020 on Saturday (November 13). IN PICS | From Neeraj Chopra to Mithali Raj: List of athletes who won Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award in 2021 When we talk about cricketers, Mithali Raj received Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award, on the other hand, opening batter Shikhar Dhawan was awarded the prestigious Arjuna Award. Olympic gold medallist Neeraj Chopra, wrestler Ravi Kumar, para shooter Avani Lekhara, footballer Sunil Chhetri and Mithali were among the 12 athletes who received Khel Ratna. Meanwhile, Dhawan, Tokyo 2020 Paralympics silver medallist Bhavina Patel were among the 35 athletes who received the prestigious Arjuna Award. ALSO READ | 'Women in sport are powerful catalysts of change,' says Mithali Raj after winning Khel Ratna Award A great moment of pride and congratulations to all the Khel Ratna, Arjuna, Dronacharya and Adventure award winners. Your excellence will inspire so many people to pursue their sporting passion. pic.twitter.com/VybwDZy0vf — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) November 14, 2021 × Kohli, who recently led his team in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2021, had stepped down as the captain of India's Twenty20 team. Although, he will continue to lead the team in One-Day Internationals and Test formats. India's T20 World Cup was unsuccessful as India bowed out of the tournament from the group stage. In the Super 12 stage, India lost to Pakistan (by 10 wickets) and New Zealand (eight wickets), then registered big wins against Afghanistan, Scotland and Namibia but it was not enough to book a semi-final berth.

'Your excellence will inspire so many people': Virat Kohli to National Sports Awards 2021 winners

<p>India's legendary cricketer Mithali Raj is "honoured and grateful" to receive the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award on Saturday (November 13). She was conferred with the prestigious award this year in recognition of her outstanding achievements in cricket.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Apart from Mithali, Olympic gold medallist Neeraj Chopra, wrestler Ravi Kumar, para shooter Avani Lekhara, Indian football team skipper Sunil Chhetri were among the 12 athletes who were awarded.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She is the highest run-scorer in women's international cricket and the only woman cricketer to surpass the 7000-run mark in women's ODI matches.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-neeraj-chopra-to-mithali-raj-list-of-athletes-who-won-major-dhyan-chand-khel-ratna-award-in-2021-429094">From Neeraj Chopra to Mithali Raj: List of athletes who won Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award in 2021</a></strong></p>

<p>After receiving the honour, Mithali in a statement on Twitter said that the award is a validation of those hours and all the sacrifices a player makes in&nbsp;life.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The statement further read: "When I was growing up and learning to play this amazing game, representing my country was my dream. I always wanted to wear the blue jersey, which represents the absolute pride we feel for our nation. One strives for mastery but there are so many variables and infinite parameters that when success comes by, it often is a result of hours of grind every day."</p>

<p>"I just wanted to give cricket everything I had and I think I am happy that it pushed me harder and harder to get to this momentous day. Today, I am honoured, proud and fortunate to be a part of Indian Cricket," she added.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Truly honoured and grateful to receive the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award 🙏 <a href="https://t.co/79HZOV9Uox">pic.twitter.com/79HZOV9Uox</a></p>
— Mithali Raj (@M_Raj03) <a href="https://twitter.com/M_Raj03/status/1459519148942188544?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>"Women in sport are powerful catalysts of change and when they get the appreciation they deserve, it inspires change in several other women wanting to achieve their dreams. I sincerely hope that my journey inspires young girls all across the country to pursue their dreams and know that only when you dream can you make it happen," said Mithali.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">President Kovind confers Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award, 2021 on Ms Mithali Raj in recognition of her outstanding achievements in Cricket.<br />
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· Highest run-scorer in Women's International Cricket<br />
· Only woman cricketer to surpass the 7000 run mark in Women's ODI matches <a href="https://t.co/oc3mpiUy8R">pic.twitter.com/oc3mpiUy8R</a></p>
— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) <a href="https://twitter.com/rashtrapatibhvn/status/1459517587176361991?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>


India's legendary cricketer Mithali Raj is "honoured and grateful" to receive the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award on Saturday (November 13). She was conferred with the prestigious award this year in recognition of her outstanding achievements in cricket.

India's legendary cricketer Mithali Raj is "honoured and grateful" to receive the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award on Saturday (November 13). She was conferred with the prestigious award this year in recognition of her outstanding achievements in cricket. Apart from Mithali, Olympic gold medallist Neeraj Chopra, wrestler Ravi Kumar, para shooter Avani Lekhara, Indian football team skipper Sunil Chhetri were among the 12 athletes who were awarded. She is the highest run-scorer in women's international cricket and the only woman cricketer to surpass the 7000-run mark in women's ODI matches. IN PICS | From Neeraj Chopra to Mithali Raj: List of athletes who won Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award in 2021 After receiving the honour, Mithali in a statement on Twitter said that the award is a validation of those hours and all the sacrifices a player makes in life. The statement further read: "When I was growing up and learning to play this amazing game, representing my country was my dream. I always wanted to wear the blue jersey, which represents the absolute pride we feel for our nation. One strives for mastery but there are so many variables and infinite parameters that when success comes by, it often is a result of hours of grind every day." "I just wanted to give cricket everything I had and I think I am happy that it pushed me harder and harder to get to this momentous day. Today, I am honoured, proud and fortunate to be a part of Indian Cricket," she added. Truly honoured and grateful to receive the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award 🙏 pic.twitter.com/79HZOV9Uox — Mithali Raj (@M_Raj03) November 13, 2021 × "Women in sport are powerful catalysts of change and when they get the appreciation they deserve, it inspires change in several other women wanting to achieve their dreams. I sincerely hope that my journey inspires young girls all across the country to pursue their dreams and know that only when you dream can you make it happen," said Mithali. President Kovind confers Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award, 2021 on Ms Mithali Raj in recognition of her outstanding achievements in Cricket. · Highest run-scorer in Women's International Cricket · Only woman cricketer to surpass the 7000 run mark in Women's ODI matches pic.twitter.com/oc3mpiUy8R — President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) November 13, 2021 ×

'Women in sport are powerful catalysts of change,' says Mithali Raj after winning Khel Ratna Award

<p>Olympic gold medallist Neeraj Chopra, wrestler Ravi Kumar, para shooter Avani Lekhara, Indian football team skipper Sunil Chhetri and India women`s cricket stalwart Mithali Raj were among the 12 athletes who received the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award on Saturday.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Olympian Neeraj Chopra receives Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award from President Ram Nath Kovind at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi <a href="https://t.co/eacGZNOB34">pic.twitter.com/eacGZNOB34</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1459477458936164353?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>The President of India Ram Nath Kovind on Saturday conferred National Sports Awards to the athletes.Lovlina Borgohain (Boxing), Sreejesh P.R (Hockey), Sumit Antil (Para Athletics), Pramod Bhagat (Para Badminton), Manish Narwal (Para Shooting), and Manpreet Singh (Hockey) are other athletes who were confered with the prestiguous award.Krishna Nagar (Para Badminton) was also slated to receive the Khel Ratna Award but had to miss the event after the sudden demise of his mother.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shikhar-dhawan-bhavina-patel-suhas-yathiraj-among-35-athletes-conferred-with-arjuna-award-429032">Shikhar Dhawan, Bhavina Patel, Suhas Yathiraj among 35 athletes conferred with Arjuna Award</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">President Ram Nath Kovind confers Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award 2021 on Pramod Bhagat (para-badminton), Mithali Raj (cricket), Sunil Chhetri (football), and Manpreet Singh (hockey) in New Delhi <a href="https://t.co/VvabvEtep9">pic.twitter.com/VvabvEtep9</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1459483442077331456?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>All men`s Hockey India team who won the historic bronze medal in Tokyo 2020 Olympics has been awarded Arjun Award with the exceptions of PR Sreejesh and Manpreet Singh -- both awarded the Khel Ratna Award.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Boxer Lovlina Borgohain, hockey player Sreejesh PR, para shooter Avani Lekhara and para-athlete Sumit Antil receive Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award in New Delhi <a href="https://t.co/zStSOrMqGe">pic.twitter.com/zStSOrMqGe</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1459481320015335430?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award is given for the spectacular and most outstanding performance in the field of sports by a sportsperson over a period of the previous four years.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Wrestler Ravi Kumar receives Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award from President Ram Nath Kovind in New Delhi <a href="https://t.co/INCMBNrIDr">pic.twitter.com/INCMBNrIDr</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1459478493486481410?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>The specially organised award function is being held at the Rashtrapati Bhavan. National Sports Awards are given every year to recognise and reward excellence in sports.&nbsp;</p>


Olympic gold medallist Neeraj Chopra, wrestler Ravi Kumar, para shooter Avani Lekhara, Indian football team skipper Sunil Chhetri and India women`s cricket stalwart Mithali Raj were among the 12 athletes who received the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award on Saturday.

Olympic gold medallist Neeraj Chopra, wrestler Ravi Kumar, para shooter Avani Lekhara, Indian football team skipper Sunil Chhetri and India women`s cricket stalwart Mithali Raj were among the 12 athletes who received the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award on Saturday. Olympian Neeraj Chopra receives Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award from President Ram Nath Kovind at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi pic.twitter.com/eacGZNOB34 — ANI (@ANI) November 13, 2021 × The President of India Ram Nath Kovind on Saturday conferred National Sports Awards to the athletes.Lovlina Borgohain (Boxing), Sreejesh P.R (Hockey), Sumit Antil (Para Athletics), Pramod Bhagat (Para Badminton), Manish Narwal (Para Shooting), and Manpreet Singh (Hockey) are other athletes who were confered with the prestiguous award.Krishna Nagar (Para Badminton) was also slated to receive the Khel Ratna Award but had to miss the event after the sudden demise of his mother. ALSO READ: Shikhar Dhawan, Bhavina Patel, Suhas Yathiraj among 35 athletes conferred with Arjuna Award President Ram Nath Kovind confers Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award 2021 on Pramod Bhagat (para-badminton), Mithali Raj (cricket), Sunil Chhetri (football), and Manpreet Singh (hockey) in New Delhi pic.twitter.com/VvabvEtep9 — ANI (@ANI) November 13, 2021 × All men`s Hockey India team who won the historic bronze medal in Tokyo 2020 Olympics has been awarded Arjun Award with the exceptions of PR Sreejesh and Manpreet Singh -- both awarded the Khel Ratna Award. Boxer Lovlina Borgohain, hockey player Sreejesh PR, para shooter Avani Lekhara and para-athlete Sumit Antil receive Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award in New Delhi pic.twitter.com/zStSOrMqGe — ANI (@ANI) November 13, 2021 × Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award is given for the spectacular and most outstanding performance in the field of sports by a sportsperson over a period of the previous four years. #WATCH | Wrestler Ravi Kumar receives Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award from President Ram Nath Kovind in New Delhi pic.twitter.com/INCMBNrIDr — ANI (@ANI) November 13, 2021 × The specially organised award function is being held at the Rashtrapati Bhavan. National Sports Awards are given every year to recognise and reward excellence in sports.

Neeraj Chopra, Mithali Raj, Sunil Chhetri, PR Sreejesh among 12 athletes conferred with Khel Ratna Award

<p>Indian athletes Neeraj Chopra, Ravi Dahiya and Lovlina Borgohain are set to be awarded the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna award.</p>

<p>Sources in the known of ANI revealed that Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna award will be awarded to Neeraj Chopra, Ravi Dahiya, Lovlina Borgohain, PR Sreejesh, Avani Lekhara, Sumit Antil, Pramod Bhagat, Krishna Nagar, Manish Narwal, Mithali Raj, and Sunil Chhetri.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/international-olympic-committee-to-cut-greenhouse-gas-emissions-by-50-by-2030-423531">International Olympic Committee to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 50% by 2030</a></strong></p>

<p>Apart from this, 35 players will be awarded the Arjuna Award. Among them are Yogesh Kathuniya, Nishad Kumar, Praveen Kumar, Suhas Yathiraj, Singhraj Adhana, Bhavina Patel, Harvinder Singh, and Sharad Kumar.</p>

<p>All men`s Hockey India team who has won the historic bronze medal in Tokyo 2020 Olympics has been awarded Arjun Award with the exceptions of PR Sreejesh and Manpreet Singh.</p>

<p>Arjuna Award winners from the hockey team are: Harmanpreet Singh, Rupinder Pal Singh, Surender Kumar, Amit Rohidas, Birendra Lakra, Hardik Singh, Vivek Sagar Prasad, Nilakanta Sharma, Sumit, Shamsher Singh, Dilpreet Singh, Gurjant Singh, Lalit Kumar Upadhyay, and Mandeep Singh.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-are-in-talks-with-ioc-for-2036-olympics-motera-best-venue-ioa-chief-419483">We are in talks with IOC for 2036 Olympics, Motera best venue: IOA chief</a></strong></p>

<p>Dronacharya Award has been awarded to Radhakrishna Nair, TP Ouseph, Sandeep Sangwan among others.&nbsp;</p>


Indian athletes Neeraj Chopra, Ravi Dahiya and Lovlina Borgohain are set to be awarded the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna award. Sources in the known of ANI revealed that Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna award will be awarded to Neeraj Chopra, Ravi Dahiya, Lovlina Borgohain, PR Sreejesh, Avani Lekhara, Sumit Antil, Pramod Bhagat, Krishna Nagar, Manish Narwal, Mithali Raj, and Sunil Chhetri.

Indian athletes Neeraj Chopra, Ravi Dahiya and Lovlina Borgohain are set to be awarded the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna award. Sources in the known of ANI revealed that Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna award will be awarded to Neeraj Chopra, Ravi Dahiya, Lovlina Borgohain, PR Sreejesh, Avani Lekhara, Sumit Antil, Pramod Bhagat, Krishna Nagar, Manish Narwal, Mithali Raj, and Sunil Chhetri. ALSO READ: International Olympic Committee to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 50% by 2030 Apart from this, 35 players will be awarded the Arjuna Award. Among them are Yogesh Kathuniya, Nishad Kumar, Praveen Kumar, Suhas Yathiraj, Singhraj Adhana, Bhavina Patel, Harvinder Singh, and Sharad Kumar. All men`s Hockey India team who has won the historic bronze medal in Tokyo 2020 Olympics has been awarded Arjun Award with the exceptions of PR Sreejesh and Manpreet Singh. Arjuna Award winners from the hockey team are: Harmanpreet Singh, Rupinder Pal Singh, Surender Kumar, Amit Rohidas, Birendra Lakra, Hardik Singh, Vivek Sagar Prasad, Nilakanta Sharma, Sumit, Shamsher Singh, Dilpreet Singh, Gurjant Singh, Lalit Kumar Upadhyay, and Mandeep Singh. ALSO READ: We are in talks with IOC for 2036 Olympics, Motera best venue: IOA chief Dronacharya Award has been awarded to Radhakrishna Nair, TP Ouseph, Sandeep Sangwan among others.

Neeraj Chopra, Ravi Dahiya, Mithali Raj likely to be conferred with Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna award

<p>Australia's captain Meg Lanning said that&nbsp;the Indian team tested and pushed the hosts during the multi-format series.</p>

<p>In the third and final T20I here at the Metricon Stadium in Carrara on Sunday, Australia dealt India a devastating blow, as the visitors failed to conclude the tour on a high note, losing by 14 runs.</p>

<p>Australia won the multi-format series 11-5 with this victory. After a strong effort by Australian bowlers, India were unable to chase down the score of 150 in the allocated 20 overs.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/smriti-mandhanas-fifty-in-vain-as-india-suffer-14-run-defeat-in-3rd-t20i-against-australia-lose-series-0-2-419658">Smriti Mandhana's fifty in vain as India suffer 14-run defeat in 3rd T20I against Australia, lose series 0-2</a></strong></p>

<p>"We were looking forward to today, knew India would come back hard. Been a great series, both sides have had momentum. India have really tested us and given us a great challenge," after the victory, Lanning remarked.</p>

<p>&nbsp;"Tahlia McGrath, Player of the Series, is a great effort to dominate the series and a number of young players have contributed at different times," she added.</p>

<p>Nicola Carey took two wickets, and Ashleigh Gardner, Georgia Wareham, and Annabel Sutherland each took one. Smriti Mandhana, India's opener, had a 52-run innings.</p>


Australia's captain Meg Lanning said that the Indian team tested and pushed the hosts during the multi-format series. In the third and final T20I here at the Metricon Stadium in Carrara on Sunday, Australia dealt India a devastating blow, as the visitors failed to conclude the tour on a high note, losing by 14 runs.

Australia's captain Meg Lanning said that the Indian team tested and pushed the hosts during the multi-format series. In the third and final T20I here at the Metricon Stadium in Carrara on Sunday, Australia dealt India a devastating blow, as the visitors failed to conclude the tour on a high note, losing by 14 runs. Australia won the multi-format series 11-5 with this victory. After a strong effort by Australian bowlers, India were unable to chase down the score of 150 in the allocated 20 overs. ALSO READ: Smriti Mandhana's fifty in vain as India suffer 14-run defeat in 3rd T20I against Australia, lose series 0-2 "We were looking forward to today, knew India would come back hard. Been a great series, both sides have had momentum. India have really tested us and given us a great challenge," after the victory, Lanning remarked. "Tahlia McGrath, Player of the Series, is a great effort to dominate the series and a number of young players have contributed at different times," she added. Nicola Carey took two wickets, and Ashleigh Gardner, Georgia Wareham, and Annabel Sutherland each took one. Smriti Mandhana, India's opener, had a 52-run innings.

Aus W v Ind W: India really tested us and gave us a great challenge, says Meg Lanning

<p>Meg Lanning, Australia's captain, confessed that the Indian squad placed the hosts on the back foot in the one-off pink-ball Test. As Mithali Raj and Lanning shook hands in the closing session of Day 4 at the Carrara Oval in Queensland on Sunday, the only Test match of India's tour of Australia concluded in a draw.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the post-match presentation, Lanning said, "We certainly came to win as did India. India played really well and put us on the back foot, we had to fight it out. They ran in hard and gave it their all. We fielded every day in this Test."</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pink-ball-test-indias-smriti-mandhana-rates-her-stunning-127-run-knock-in-as-top-three-against-australia-417945">Pink ball Test: India's Smriti Mandhana rates her stunning 127-run knock in as 'top three' against Australia</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">The match was hindered by rain on many occasions, and Lanning believes that if it hadn't been for the weather, the pink-ball Test might have ended differently. "Without the weather, we would have got a result in four days," said Lanning.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Both teams will receive two points as a result of this tie. Following the ODIs and a Test, Australia leads India 6-4 in the multi-format series. Smriti Mandhana was great with the bat in the first innings, Shafali in the second, while Jhulan Goswami was outstanding with the ball in the pink-ball Test.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Ellyse Perry once again came to Australia's rescue with the bat, while Stella Campbell, making her debut, impressed with her determination to rush in and try at all times.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mithali-raj-led-india-dominate-australia-as-historic-pink-ball-test-ends-in-a-draw-417966">Mithali Raj-led India dominate Australia as historic pink-ball Test ends in a draw</a></strong></p>

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Meg Lanning, Australia's captain, confessed that the Indian squad placed the hosts on the back foot in the one-off pink-ball Test. As Mithali Raj and Lanning shook hands in the closing session of Day 4 at the Carrara Oval in Queensland on Sunday, the only Test match of India's tour of Australia concluded in a draw.

Meg Lanning, Australia's captain, confessed that the Indian squad placed the hosts on the back foot in the one-off pink-ball Test. As Mithali Raj and Lanning shook hands in the closing session of Day 4 at the Carrara Oval in Queensland on Sunday, the only Test match of India's tour of Australia concluded in a draw. During the post-match presentation, Lanning said, "We certainly came to win as did India. India played really well and put us on the back foot, we had to fight it out. They ran in hard and gave it their all. We fielded every day in this Test." Also Read: Pink ball Test: India's Smriti Mandhana rates her stunning 127-run knock in as 'top three' against Australia The match was hindered by rain on many occasions, and Lanning believes that if it hadn't been for the weather, the pink-ball Test might have ended differently. "Without the weather, we would have got a result in four days," said Lanning. Both teams will receive two points as a result of this tie. Following the ODIs and a Test, Australia leads India 6-4 in the multi-format series. Smriti Mandhana was great with the bat in the first innings, Shafali in the second, while Jhulan Goswami was outstanding with the ball in the pink-ball Test. Ellyse Perry once again came to Australia's rescue with the bat, while Stella Campbell, making her debut, impressed with her determination to rush in and try at all times. Also Read: Mithali Raj-led India dominate Australia as historic pink-ball Test ends in a draw

Pink ball Test: Australian skipper Meg Lanning praises Mithali Raj-led Team India

<p>Indian women's team put up a highly commendable performance, dominating Australia for the better part in its maiden Day/Night Test, which ended in a draw primarily due to inclement weather during the first two days.</p>

<p>Resuming the day at 143 for three, Ellyse Perry (68 not out) and Ashleigh Gardner (51) went on to share an 89-run stand before Indian pacers triggered the batting collapse, reducing Australia to 241 for nine from 208 for four.<br />
What followed was an interesting declaration from Meg Lanning at the stroke of dinner.</p>

<p>India, who made 377 in their first innings after being asked to bat, played 35 overs in second innings before declaring after tea to set Australia an improbable 272-run target in just 32 overs. Shafali Verma made a fine 52 off 91 balls while Punam remained unbeaten on 41 off 62 balls.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pink-ball-test-indias-smriti-mandhana-rates-her-stunning-127-run-knock-in-as-top-three-against-australia-417945">Pink ball Test: India's Smriti Mandhana rates her stunning 127-run knock in as 'top three' against Australia</a></p>

<p>The target was virtually out of reach for Australia who lost Alyssa Healy and Beth Mooney cheaply. Australia were 36 for two in 15 overs before players of both teams shook hands to settle for a draw.</p>

<p>As per rules of multi-format series, both teams settled for two points. The series score stands at 6-4 in Australia's favour.<br />
More than 80 overs were lost due to weather over the first two days, making draw the most likely outcome of the four-day match.</p>

<p>On Twitter Australian Women Cricket Team handle tweeted:</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Love the contest!<br />
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Catch you for the T20Is, <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCIWomen?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BCCIWomen</a> 👊 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/NFsFpGOXbo">pic.twitter.com/NFsFpGOXbo</a></p>
— Australian Women's Cricket Team 🏏 (@AusWomenCricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/AusWomenCricket/status/1444630204098355201?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 3, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>India could have declared at tea with 242-run lead and 41 overs to bowl but they didn't want to leave anything to chance and took the safety-first approach.</p>

<p>India, who came into the game with only two practise sessions with pink-ball, outplayed the Australians in all departments. It was the first time in 15 years that two teams played a Test.</p>

<p>Smriti Mandhana struck a memorable hundred to set the foundation for India's big total before the pace trio of Jhulan Goswami, Meghna Singh and Pooja Vastrakar put the Australian batters under pressure.</p>

<p>It would be fair to say that the Indian fast bowlers got more out of the drop in pitch than their Australian counterparts.<br />
Debutant Meghna impressed with her swing bowing, 38-year-old Jhulan was relentless as usual and showed age was just a number and Pooja as first change provided no respite to the batter.</p>

<p>India reached 106 for two in their second innings at tea. First innings centurion Mandhana (31 off 48) fell to a fantastic catch in the deep by Ashleigh Garnder.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/issf-junior-world-championship-manu-bhaker-shines-as-four-golds-take-india-to-top-of-medal-standings-417884">ISSF Junior World Championship: Manu Bhaker shines as four golds take India to top of medal standings</a></strong></p>

<p>Yastika Bhatia (3) was then promoted to number three to push the scoring rate but she could only last 12 balls.<br />
In the first session, India pacers made the new pink ball talk before an under-pressure Australia made an interesting declaration.</p>

<p>In what seemed as an attempt to move the game forward, Meg Lanning declared the innings before her team could be bowled out.</p>

<p>While Deepti Sharma got rid of Gardner, Meghna once again troubled the batters with her outswingers as India took four wickets after the second new ball was taken in the 81st over.</p>

<p>Perry, who averages more than 78 in Test cricket, could have been out as many as three times but had the luck on her side. While one was a close leg-before shout, she was also dropped twice.</p>

<p>Meghna took her maiden wicket with a beautiful outswinger to have Annabel Sutherland caught behind. Her second wicket was Sophie Molineux, who was foxed by another outswinger (inswinger) to the left-hander.</p>

<p>Pooja had Georgia Wareham caught behind before offie Deepti took her second wicket of the day with an arm ball to dismiss Darcie Brown.</p>

<p>Brief Scores:<br />
India Women: 377 for 8 declared in 145 overs and 135/3 in 37 overs (Shafali Verma 52; Ashleigh Gardner 1/21, Sophie Molineux 1/23).</p>

<p>Australia Women: 241 for 9 declared in 96.4 overs (Ellyse Perry 68, Jhulan Goswami 2/33, Pooja Vastrakar 3/49) and 36/2 in 15 overs.</p>


Indian women's team put up a highly commendable performance, dominating Australia for the better part in its maiden Day/Night Test, which ended in a draw primarily due to inclement weather during the first two days.

Indian women's team put up a highly commendable performance, dominating Australia for the better part in its maiden Day/Night Test, which ended in a draw primarily due to inclement weather during the first two days. Resuming the day at 143 for three, Ellyse Perry (68 not out) and Ashleigh Gardner (51) went on to share an 89-run stand before Indian pacers triggered the batting collapse, reducing Australia to 241 for nine from 208 for four. What followed was an interesting declaration from Meg Lanning at the stroke of dinner. India, who made 377 in their first innings after being asked to bat, played 35 overs in second innings before declaring after tea to set Australia an improbable 272-run target in just 32 overs. Shafali Verma made a fine 52 off 91 balls while Punam remained unbeaten on 41 off 62 balls. Also Read: Pink ball Test: India's Smriti Mandhana rates her stunning 127-run knock in as 'top three' against Australia The target was virtually out of reach for Australia who lost Alyssa Healy and Beth Mooney cheaply. Australia were 36 for two in 15 overs before players of both teams shook hands to settle for a draw. As per rules of multi-format series, both teams settled for two points. The series score stands at 6-4 in Australia's favour. More than 80 overs were lost due to weather over the first two days, making draw the most likely outcome of the four-day match. On Twitter Australian Women Cricket Team handle tweeted: Love the contest! Catch you for the T20Is, @BCCIWomen 👊 #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/NFsFpGOXbo — Australian Women's Cricket Team 🏏 (@AusWomenCricket) October 3, 2021 × India could have declared at tea with 242-run lead and 41 overs to bowl but they didn't want to leave anything to chance and took the safety-first approach. India, who came into the game with only two practise sessions with pink-ball, outplayed the Australians in all departments. It was the first time in 15 years that two teams played a Test. Smriti Mandhana struck a memorable hundred to set the foundation for India's big total before the pace trio of Jhulan Goswami, Meghna Singh and Pooja Vastrakar put the Australian batters under pressure. It would be fair to say that the Indian fast bowlers got more out of the drop in pitch than their Australian counterparts. Debutant Meghna impressed with her swing bowing, 38-year-old Jhulan was relentless as usual and showed age was just a number and Pooja as first change provided no respite to the batter. India reached 106 for two in their second innings at tea. First innings centurion Mandhana (31 off 48) fell to a fantastic catch in the deep by Ashleigh Garnder. ALSO READ | ISSF Junior World Championship: Manu Bhaker shines as four golds take India to top of medal standings Yastika Bhatia (3) was then promoted to number three to push the scoring rate but she could only last 12 balls. In the first session, India pacers made the new pink ball talk before an under-pressure Australia made an interesting declaration. In what seemed as an attempt to move the game forward, Meg Lanning declared the innings before her team could be bowled out. While Deepti Sharma got rid of Gardner, Meghna once again troubled the batters with her outswingers as India took four wickets after the second new ball was taken in the 81st over. Perry, who averages more than 78 in Test cricket, could have been out as many as three times but had the luck on her side. While one was a close leg-before shout, she was also dropped twice. Meghna took her maiden wicket with a beautiful outswinger to have Annabel Sutherland caught behind. Her second wicket was Sophie Molineux, who was foxed by another outswinger (inswinger) to the left-hander. Pooja had Georgia Wareham caught behind before offie Deepti took her second wicket of the day with an arm ball to dismiss Darcie Brown. Brief Scores: India Women: 377 for 8 declared in 145 overs and 135/3 in 37 overs (Shafali Verma 52; Ashleigh Gardner 1/21, Sophie Molineux 1/23). Australia Women: 241 for 9 declared in 96.4 overs (Ellyse Perry 68, Jhulan Goswami 2/33, Pooja Vastrakar 3/49) and 36/2 in 15 overs.

Mithali Raj-led India dominate Australia as historic pink-ball Test ends in a draw

<p>In a historic first, India women will play their first-ever pink-ball Test against Australia, beginning Thursday and the focus remains on how the batters will adjust to the moving ball in twilight conditions. The pink ball tends to skid more and it moves a lot under lights, and hence it would be interesting to see how the opening batters Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma adjust to the conditions.</p>

<p>Mithali Raj`s side will enter the Test with some momentum behind them as they were able to break Australia`s 26-match unbeaten run in ODIs after defeating the hosts in the final ODI by two wickets. Earlier this year, India had played their first Test in almost seven years, and owing to heroics by Sneh Rana, Mithali`s side was able to walk away with a famous draw. India and Australia had last played a Test in 2006 and 15 years later, both sides now find themselves on the cusp of playing a Test under lights. Australia has a potent pace attack and they are likely to trouble the Indian batters so it would be interesting to see whether the visiting camp has it in them to grind it out and play out a few tough hours on the pitch.</p>

<p>Harmanpreet Kaur had missed the ODI series due to an injury and it is not known whether she will play the Test or not. So in absence of an experienced middle-order, Mithali Raj once again holds the key. Deepti Sharma performed nicely in the Test against England, and hence she would look to continue with her form in the longest format.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jhulan-goswami-climbs-to-second-spot-in-latest-icc-odi-bowling-rankings-416601">Jhulan Goswami climbs to second spot in latest ICC ODI bowling rankings</a></strong></p>

<p>Jhulan Goswami is coming off a Player of the Match performance in the third ODI so she would enter the pink-ball contest with high confidence and it needs to be seen whether the likes of Meghna Singh, Pooja Vastrakar and Shikha Pandey are able to provide her with desired support at the other end.</p>

<p><strong>Australia squad: </strong>Meg Lanning (c), Darcie Brown, Maitlan Brown, Stella Campbell, Nicola Carey, Hannah Darlington, Ashleigh Gardner, Alyssa Healy, Tahlia McGrath, Sophie Molineux, Beth Mooney, Ellyse Perry, Georgia Redmayne, Molly Strano, Annabel Sutherland, Tayla Vlaeminck, Georgia Wareham.</p>

<p><strong>India Test and ODI squad: </strong>Mithali Raj (c), Harmanpreet Kaur (vc), Smriti Mandhana, Shafali Verma, Punam Raut, Jemimah Rodrigues, Deepti Sharma, Sneh Rana, Yastika Bhatia, Taniya Bhatia (wk), Shikha Pandey, Jhulan Goswami, Meghna Singh, Pooja Vastrakar, Rajeshwari Gayakwad, Poonam Yadav, Richa Ghosh, Ekta Bisht.</p>


In a historic first, India women will play their first-ever pink-ball Test against Australia, beginning Thursday and the focus remains on how the batters will adjust to the moving ball in twilight conditions.

In a historic first, India women will play their first-ever pink-ball Test against Australia, beginning Thursday and the focus remains on how the batters will adjust to the moving ball in twilight conditions. The pink ball tends to skid more and it moves a lot under lights, and hence it would be interesting to see how the opening batters Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma adjust to the conditions. Mithali Raj`s side will enter the Test with some momentum behind them as they were able to break Australia`s 26-match unbeaten run in ODIs after defeating the hosts in the final ODI by two wickets. Earlier this year, India had played their first Test in almost seven years, and owing to heroics by Sneh Rana, Mithali`s side was able to walk away with a famous draw. India and Australia had last played a Test in 2006 and 15 years later, both sides now find themselves on the cusp of playing a Test under lights. Australia has a potent pace attack and they are likely to trouble the Indian batters so it would be interesting to see whether the visiting camp has it in them to grind it out and play out a few tough hours on the pitch. Harmanpreet Kaur had missed the ODI series due to an injury and it is not known whether she will play the Test or not. So in absence of an experienced middle-order, Mithali Raj once again holds the key. Deepti Sharma performed nicely in the Test against England, and hence she would look to continue with her form in the longest format. ALSO READ | Jhulan Goswami climbs to second spot in latest ICC ODI bowling rankings Jhulan Goswami is coming off a Player of the Match performance in the third ODI so she would enter the pink-ball contest with high confidence and it needs to be seen whether the likes of Meghna Singh, Pooja Vastrakar and Shikha Pandey are able to provide her with desired support at the other end. Australia squad: Meg Lanning (c), Darcie Brown, Maitlan Brown, Stella Campbell, Nicola Carey, Hannah Darlington, Ashleigh Gardner, Alyssa Healy, Tahlia McGrath, Sophie Molineux, Beth Mooney, Ellyse Perry, Georgia Redmayne, Molly Strano, Annabel Sutherland, Tayla Vlaeminck, Georgia Wareham. India Test and ODI squad: Mithali Raj (c), Harmanpreet Kaur (vc), Smriti Mandhana, Shafali Verma, Punam Raut, Jemimah Rodrigues, Deepti Sharma, Sneh Rana, Yastika Bhatia, Taniya Bhatia (wk), Shikha Pandey, Jhulan Goswami, Meghna Singh, Pooja Vastrakar, Rajeshwari Gayakwad, Poonam Yadav, Richa Ghosh, Ekta Bisht.

Aus W vs Ind W: Focus on Shafali Verma, Mithali Raj as visitors gear up for first pink-ball Test

<p>Yastika Bhatia and Shafali Verma played knocks of 64 and 56 respectively as India defeated Australia by two wickets in the third and final ODI here at the Harrup Park on Sunday. With this defeat, Australia`s unbeaten 26-match run in ODI cricket came to an end. However, the hosts won the three-match ODI series by 2-1.</p>

<p>Chasing 265, India got off to a steady start as opening batters Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma put on 59 runs for the opening wicket. However, the stand did not last long as Ashleigh Gardner dismissed Mandhana (22) in the 11th over. Yastika Bhatia next joined Shafali in the middle and the duo did not let the momentum drop for the visitors.</p>

<p>Yastika was the aggressor of the two, while Shafali played the second fiddle. Both batters brought up their respective half-centuries as India was poised well in their chase at 153/1 by the end of the 28th over. A 101-run stand for the second wicket came to an end in the 30th over as Sophie Molineux bowled Shafali (56).Richa Ghosh (0) and Bhatia (64) fell shortly after and India was reduced to 180/4, still needing 85 runs to win from 96 balls.</p>

<p>Mithali Raj (16) and Pooja Vastrakar (3) departed in quick succession, and the hopes of India`s victory rested on Deepti Sharma and Sneh Rana`s shoulders. Deepti was sent back to the pavilion after playing a knock of 31 runs, but Sneh Rana kept India in the game.</p>

<p>However, the right-hander was dismissed in the penultimate over after playing a knock of 30 runs and India needed 4 runs from the final over to register a win. Jhulan Goswami (8*) showed her experience to finally take the visitors over the line. Earlier, Ashleigh Gardner and Beth Mooney played knocks of 67 and 52 respectively as Australia posted a total of 264/9.</p>

<p>Opting to bat, opening batters Rachael Haynes and Alyssa Healy put on 41 runs for the opening wicket, but this stand was broken in the ninth over as Jhulan Goswami dismissed Haynes (13).</p>

<p>Indian bowlers then managed to get on top of Australia as Meg Lanning (0), Healy (35), and Ellyse Perry (26) departed in a matter of few overs and the hosts were reduced to 87/4 in the 25th over.</p>

<p>Beth Mooney and Ashleigh Gardner then got together at the crease and both helped the hosts in retrieving the innings. Both batters went past their respective 50-run mark and put up a fifth-wicket stand of 98 runs. India was finally able to break the partnership in the 40th over as Sneh Rana got the better of Mooney (52), reducing Australia to 185/5.</p>

<p>Gardner (67) was eventually sent back to the pavilion by Pooja Vastrakar in the 45th over and hopes of Australia reaching a score of more than 250 relied heavily on Tahlia McGrath. In the end, McGrath did not disappoint scoring 47 off just 32 balls, helping the hosts post a score of more than the 260-run mark. For India, Jhulan and Pooja scalped three wickets each.</p>

<p><strong>Brief Scores:</strong> Australia 264/9 (Ashleigh Gardner 67, Beth Mooney 52; Jhulan Goswami 3-37) vs India 266/8 (Yastika Bhatia 64, Shafali Verma 56, Annabel Sutherland 3-30).</p>


Yastika Bhatia and Shafali Verma played knocks of 64 and 56 respectively as India defeated Australia by two wickets in the third and final ODI here at the Harrup Park on Sunday.

Yastika Bhatia and Shafali Verma played knocks of 64 and 56 respectively as India defeated Australia by two wickets in the third and final ODI here at the Harrup Park on Sunday. With this defeat, Australia`s unbeaten 26-match run in ODI cricket came to an end. However, the hosts won the three-match ODI series by 2-1. Chasing 265, India got off to a steady start as opening batters Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma put on 59 runs for the opening wicket. However, the stand did not last long as Ashleigh Gardner dismissed Mandhana (22) in the 11th over. Yastika Bhatia next joined Shafali in the middle and the duo did not let the momentum drop for the visitors. Yastika was the aggressor of the two, while Shafali played the second fiddle. Both batters brought up their respective half-centuries as India was poised well in their chase at 153/1 by the end of the 28th over. A 101-run stand for the second wicket came to an end in the 30th over as Sophie Molineux bowled Shafali (56).Richa Ghosh (0) and Bhatia (64) fell shortly after and India was reduced to 180/4, still needing 85 runs to win from 96 balls. Mithali Raj (16) and Pooja Vastrakar (3) departed in quick succession, and the hopes of India`s victory rested on Deepti Sharma and Sneh Rana`s shoulders. Deepti was sent back to the pavilion after playing a knock of 31 runs, but Sneh Rana kept India in the game. However, the right-hander was dismissed in the penultimate over after playing a knock of 30 runs and India needed 4 runs from the final over to register a win. Jhulan Goswami (8*) showed her experience to finally take the visitors over the line. Earlier, Ashleigh Gardner and Beth Mooney played knocks of 67 and 52 respectively as Australia posted a total of 264/9. Opting to bat, opening batters Rachael Haynes and Alyssa Healy put on 41 runs for the opening wicket, but this stand was broken in the ninth over as Jhulan Goswami dismissed Haynes (13). Indian bowlers then managed to get on top of Australia as Meg Lanning (0), Healy (35), and Ellyse Perry (26) departed in a matter of few overs and the hosts were reduced to 87/4 in the 25th over. Beth Mooney and Ashleigh Gardner then got together at the crease and both helped the hosts in retrieving the innings. Both batters went past their respective 50-run mark and put up a fifth-wicket stand of 98 runs. India was finally able to break the partnership in the 40th over as Sneh Rana got the better of Mooney (52), reducing Australia to 185/5. Gardner (67) was eventually sent back to the pavilion by Pooja Vastrakar in the 45th over and hopes of Australia reaching a score of more than 250 relied heavily on Tahlia McGrath. In the end, McGrath did not disappoint scoring 47 off just 32 balls, helping the hosts post a score of more than the 260-run mark. For India, Jhulan and Pooja scalped three wickets each. Brief Scores: Australia 264/9 (Ashleigh Gardner 67, Beth Mooney 52; Jhulan Goswami 3-37) vs India 266/8 (Yastika Bhatia 64, Shafali Verma 56, Annabel Sutherland 3-30).

Shafali, Yastika and Sneh shine as India end Australia's unbeaten 26-match run in ODIs

<p>Harleen Deol pulled off a breathtaking catch near the boundary in the first T20I game against England at Northampton. The cricketing fraternity all throughout considered her marvelous effort, which acquired her praise from all corners.&nbsp;</p>

<p>England were 166 for 4 in the 19th over when Amy Jones, batting on 43 off 26 balls, hit India's Shikha Pandey towards wide long-off. In the 19th over of England's batting, Amy Jones hit the ball towards long-off. Showing her games abilities, Harleen Deol hopped across the boundary rope, tossed the ball inside, and again jumped forward to finish probably the best gets at any point taken in women's cricket.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO&nbsp;READ:</strong>&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="Cricket: Harleen Deol takes a stunning catch to dismiss Amy Jones - WATCH">Cricket: Harleen Deol takes a stunning catch to dismiss Amy Jones - WATCH</a></p>

<p>The video of Harleen's catch was shared on the Government of India's Instagram profile which has effectively circulated around the web, gathering more than 700k views in 24 hours. On Saturday, PM Modi shared a video of the post as his Instagram story with an inscription, “Phenomenal! Well done @deol.harleen304.”</p>

<p><img alt="PM Modi" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a8fa84fa-466d-4ff9-87dc-01e680cb64cd" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Capture%205555.PNG" /></p>

<p>While sharing the video via online media, the Government of India stated, "YOU ABSOLUTELY CANNOT MISS THIS! India's Harleen Deol took one of the most stunning catches in the history of women's cricket to dismiss England's Amy Jones during the 1st T20I at Northampton.&nbsp;Take a bow!”</p>

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<p>Amy Jones was England's second-best player in the match. She scored 43 runs in only 26 balls and looked set to finish her team innings on a high note before Harleen Deol's gigantic effort at long-off. England managed to score 177/7 out of 20 overs.</p>


Harleen Deol pulled off a breathtaking catch near the boundary in the first T20I game against England at Northampton. The cricketing fraternity all throughout considered her marvelous effort, which acquired her praise from all corners.

Harleen Deol pulled off a breathtaking catch near the boundary in the first T20I game against England at Northampton. The cricketing fraternity all throughout considered her marvelous effort, which acquired her praise from all corners. England were 166 for 4 in the 19th over when Amy Jones, batting on 43 off 26 balls, hit India's Shikha Pandey towards wide long-off. In the 19th over of England's batting, Amy Jones hit the ball towards long-off. Showing her games abilities, Harleen Deol hopped across the boundary rope, tossed the ball inside, and again jumped forward to finish probably the best gets at any point taken in women's cricket. ALSO READ: Cricket: Harleen Deol takes a stunning catch to dismiss Amy Jones - WATCH The video of Harleen's catch was shared on the Government of India's Instagram profile which has effectively circulated around the web, gathering more than 700k views in 24 hours. On Saturday, PM Modi shared a video of the post as his Instagram story with an inscription, “Phenomenal! Well done @deol.harleen304.” While sharing the video via online media, the Government of India stated, "YOU ABSOLUTELY CANNOT MISS THIS! India's Harleen Deol took one of the most stunning catches in the history of women's cricket to dismiss England's Amy Jones during the 1st T20I at Northampton. Take a bow!” View this post on Instagram A post shared by MyGov, Government of India (@mygovindia) × Amy Jones was England's second-best player in the match. She scored 43 runs in only 26 balls and looked set to finish her team innings on a high note before Harleen Deol's gigantic effort at long-off. England managed to score 177/7 out of 20 overs.

Cricket: 'Phenomenal' - PM Modi hails Harleen Deol for taking a stunning catch

<p>Indian cricketer Harleen Kaur Deol took an electrifying catch in the first T20I against England. This exertion of Harleen Deol has overwhelmed the social media and from any semblance of Sachin Tendulkar to Mithali Raj, everybody has commended Harleen Deol's splendid anticipation&nbsp;</p>

<p>Put to bat first, England were 166 for 4 in the 19th over when Amy Jones, batting on 43 off 26 balls, hit India's Shikha Pandey towards wide long-off. In the 19th over of England's batting, Amy Jones hit the ball towards long-off. Showing her games abilities, Harleen Deol hopped across the boundary rope, tossed the ball inside, and again jumped forward to finish probably the best gets at any point taken in women's cricket.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A fantastic piece of fielding 👏<br />
<br />
We finish our innings on 177/7<br />
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Scorecard &amp; Videos: <a href="https://t.co/oG3JwmemFp">https://t.co/oG3JwmemFp</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ENGvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ENGvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/62hFjTsULJ">pic.twitter.com/62hFjTsULJ</a></p>
— England Cricket (@englandcricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/englandcricket/status/1413579318182219777?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 9, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">That was a brilliant catch <a href="https://twitter.com/imharleenDeol?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imharleenDeol</a>. Definitely the catch of the year for me!<a href="https://t.co/pDUcVeOVN8">pic.twitter.com/pDUcVeOVN8</a></p>
— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt/status/1413719913458409479?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 10, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">As good a catch one will ever see on a cricket field, from Harleen Deol. Absolutely top class. <a href="https://t.co/CKmB3uZ7OH">https://t.co/CKmB3uZ7OH</a></p>
— VVS Laxman (@VVSLaxman281) <a href="https://twitter.com/VVSLaxman281/status/1413688277240934403?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 10, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">OMG 😱 🤯🤯<a href="https://twitter.com/imharleenDeol?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imharleenDeol</a> take a bow!! Calling it now the best we will see this series!! <a href="https://t.co/O4Dwm4OYlU">pic.twitter.com/O4Dwm4OYlU</a></p>
— Lisa Sthalekar (@sthalekar93) <a href="https://twitter.com/sthalekar93/status/1413575345882550272?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 9, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Witness to this screamer by <a href="https://twitter.com/imharleenDeol?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imharleenDeol</a> last evening ✊ 👏 Great athleticism and presence of mind . Also , credit to the fielding coach <a href="https://twitter.com/Im_AbhaySharma?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Im_AbhaySharma</a> who ensures we toil hard on the ground with some smart fielding drills . <a href="https://t.co/rulvrYzenL">https://t.co/rulvrYzenL</a></p>
— Mithali Raj (@M_Raj03) <a href="https://twitter.com/M_Raj03/status/1413746414207655936?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 10, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Regardless of such brilliance in the field, India couldn't get success in the rain-hit match over England. After England scored 177/7 out of 20 overs, India could just reach 54/3 in 8.4 overs before the game had stopped. No play could be conceivable after that as the DLS method needed to come into the spot to determine the destiny of the game.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Indian cricketer Harleen Kaur Deol took an electrifying catch in the first T20I against England. This exertion of Harleen Deol has overwhelmed the social media and from any semblance of Sachin Tendulkar to Mithali Raj, everybody has commended Harleen Deol's splendid anticipation Put to bat first, England were 166 for 4 in the 19th over when Amy Jones, batting on 43 off 26 balls, hit India's Shikha Pandey towards wide long-off.

Indian cricketer Harleen Kaur Deol took an electrifying catch in the first T20I against England. This exertion of Harleen Deol has overwhelmed the social media and from any semblance of Sachin Tendulkar to Mithali Raj, everybody has commended Harleen Deol's splendid anticipation Put to bat first, England were 166 for 4 in the 19th over when Amy Jones, batting on 43 off 26 balls, hit India's Shikha Pandey towards wide long-off. In the 19th over of England's batting, Amy Jones hit the ball towards long-off. Showing her games abilities, Harleen Deol hopped across the boundary rope, tossed the ball inside, and again jumped forward to finish probably the best gets at any point taken in women's cricket. A fantastic piece of fielding 👏 We finish our innings on 177/7 Scorecard & Videos: https://t.co/oG3JwmemFp#ENGvIND pic.twitter.com/62hFjTsULJ — England Cricket (@englandcricket) July 9, 2021 × That was a brilliant catch @imharleenDeol. Definitely the catch of the year for me!pic.twitter.com/pDUcVeOVN8 — Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) July 10, 2021 × As good a catch one will ever see on a cricket field, from Harleen Deol. Absolutely top class. https://t.co/CKmB3uZ7OH — VVS Laxman (@VVSLaxman281) July 10, 2021 × OMG 😱 🤯🤯@imharleenDeol take a bow!! Calling it now the best we will see this series!! pic.twitter.com/O4Dwm4OYlU — Lisa Sthalekar (@sthalekar93) July 9, 2021 × Witness to this screamer by @imharleenDeol last evening ✊ 👏 Great athleticism and presence of mind . Also , credit to the fielding coach @Im_AbhaySharma who ensures we toil hard on the ground with some smart fielding drills . https://t.co/rulvrYzenL — Mithali Raj (@M_Raj03) July 10, 2021 × Regardless of such brilliance in the field, India couldn't get success in the rain-hit match over England. After England scored 177/7 out of 20 overs, India could just reach 54/3 in 8.4 overs before the game had stopped. No play could be conceivable after that as the DLS method needed to come into the spot to determine the destiny of the game.

Cricket: Harleen Deol takes a stunning catch to dismiss Amy Jones - WATCH

<p>India captain is back at number one more than 16 years after she was first at the top spot; Verma, Winfield-Hill, and Ecclestone among others to advance<br />
Pakistan’s Nida Dar moves up to 15th among T20I bowlers; Cornell, Taylor also progress in weekly women’s update</p>

<p>Mithali Raj’s excellent show in the three-match series against England has helped her grab the No.1 position in the&nbsp;ICC Women’s ODI Player Rankings for the eighth time in her stellar 22-year international career.</p>

<p>The 38-year-old struck 59 in the second match and then guided India to a four-wicket victory in the final match of the series with an unbeaten 75, gaining four spots to reach the top of the ladder in the latest weekly rankings update for women, carried out on Tuesdays.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-captain-mithali-raj-shatters-huge-batting-record-bcci-reacts-395742" hreflang="en">India captain Mithali Raj shatters huge batting record; BCCI reacts</a></p>

<p>Mithali Raj had started the tour in the eighth position but her series-topping aggregate of 206 runs has helped her reclaim the top position, which she had last occupied in February 2018. The first time she reached the number one position was in April 2005 after scoring an unbeaten 91 against New Zealand at the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup in Potchefstroom and the difference of more than 16 years at No.1 is the largest for any woman batter.</p>

<p>England’s Janette Brittin was number one for the first time in 1984 and the last time in 1995, while New Zealand’s Debbie Hockley is the only other female batter to have been No.1 more than 10 years apart – first achieving the feat in 1987 and for the final time in 1997.</p>

<p>In other gains for India players, big-hitting opener Shafali Verma’s scores of 44 and 19 in the last two ODIs of the series see her gain 49 places to reach 71st position while Jhulan Goswami is up four places to 53rd. In the bowlers’ list, all-rounder Deepti Sharma is up to one place to 12th after finishing with figures of three for 47 in the final match.</p>

<p>For England, opener Lauren Winfield-Hill has advanced 14 places to 41st position with scores of 42 and 36 while Sophia Dunkley has soared 80 places to 76th after scoring 73 not out and 28.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Left-arm spinner Sophie Ecclestone continues her ascent, gaining four places to reach a career-best sixth position among bowlers after returns of three for 33 and two for 36. Kate Cross’s haul of five for 34 in the second match of the series is instrumental in seeing her advance from 25th to 18th position. Nat Sciver and Sarah Glenn have both moved up one place to reach 22nd and 43rd positions, respectively.</p>

<p>In the&nbsp;ICC Women’s T20I Player Rankings, Pakistan spinner Nida Dar, who became the first woman from her country to the milestone of a 100 T20I wickets, has gained six spots to reach 15th position after finishing with four wickets in a three-match series against the West Indies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For the West Indies, Shamilia Cornell has moved up 14 slots to 27th place while captain Stafanie Taylor has advanced 10 places to reach 42nd position after claiming a hat-trick and finishing with four for 17 in the last match. Fatima Sana is up 85 places to 94th.</p>

<p>Among batters, Chedean Nation has progressed 17 places to 61st and Kycia Knight 20 places to 71st.</p>


India captain is back at number one more than 16 years after she was first at the top spot; Verma, Winfield-Hill, and Ecclestone among others to advance Pakistan’s Nida Dar moves up to 15th among T20I bowlers; Cornell, Taylor also progress in weekly women’s update Mithali Raj’s excellent show in the three-match series against England has helped her grab the No.

India captain is back at number one more than 16 years after she was first at the top spot; Verma, Winfield-Hill, and Ecclestone among others to advance Pakistan’s Nida Dar moves up to 15th among T20I bowlers; Cornell, Taylor also progress in weekly women’s update Mithali Raj’s excellent show in the three-match series against England has helped her grab the No.1 position in the ICC Women’s ODI Player Rankings for the eighth time in her stellar 22-year international career. The 38-year-old struck 59 in the second match and then guided India to a four-wicket victory in the final match of the series with an unbeaten 75, gaining four spots to reach the top of the ladder in the latest weekly rankings update for women, carried out on Tuesdays. ALSO READ: India captain Mithali Raj shatters huge batting record; BCCI reacts Mithali Raj had started the tour in the eighth position but her series-topping aggregate of 206 runs has helped her reclaim the top position, which she had last occupied in February 2018. The first time she reached the number one position was in April 2005 after scoring an unbeaten 91 against New Zealand at the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup in Potchefstroom and the difference of more than 16 years at No.1 is the largest for any woman batter. England’s Janette Brittin was number one for the first time in 1984 and the last time in 1995, while New Zealand’s Debbie Hockley is the only other female batter to have been No.1 more than 10 years apart – first achieving the feat in 1987 and for the final time in 1997. In other gains for India players, big-hitting opener Shafali Verma’s scores of 44 and 19 in the last two ODIs of the series see her gain 49 places to reach 71st position while Jhulan Goswami is up four places to 53rd. In the bowlers’ list, all-rounder Deepti Sharma is up to one place to 12th after finishing with figures of three for 47 in the final match. For England, opener Lauren Winfield-Hill has advanced 14 places to 41st position with scores of 42 and 36 while Sophia Dunkley has soared 80 places to 76th after scoring 73 not out and 28. Left-arm spinner Sophie Ecclestone continues her ascent, gaining four places to reach a career-best sixth position among bowlers after returns of three for 33 and two for 36. Kate Cross’s haul of five for 34 in the second match of the series is instrumental in seeing her advance from 25th to 18th position. Nat Sciver and Sarah Glenn have both moved up one place to reach 22nd and 43rd positions, respectively. In the ICC Women’s T20I Player Rankings, Pakistan spinner Nida Dar, who became the first woman from her country to the milestone of a 100 T20I wickets, has gained six spots to reach 15th position after finishing with four wickets in a three-match series against the West Indies. For the West Indies, Shamilia Cornell has moved up 14 slots to 27th place while captain Stafanie Taylor has advanced 10 places to reach 42nd position after claiming a hat-trick and finishing with four for 17 in the last match. Fatima Sana is up 85 places to 94th. Among batters, Chedean Nation has progressed 17 places to 61st and Kycia Knight 20 places to 71st.

Cricket: Mithali Raj reclaims no.1 position in ICC Women's ODI player rankings

<p>India women’s Test and ODI skipper Mithali Raj on Saturday became highest run-getter across format in women's cricket. She exceeded past former England cricketer Charlotte Edwards, surpassing her aggregate of 10,273 runs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Mithali Raj arrived at the accomplishment during last ODI against has England. While pursuing a 220-run target, the Indian captain played a significant thump of 75 not out, directing her side to a 4-wicket win. She was the reliable entertainer with the bat in the three-match series, scoring 206 runs at an average of 103. In any case, she was reprimanded for her strike rate.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="India captain Mithali Raj shatters huge batting record; BCCI reacts">India captain Mithali Raj shatters huge batting record; BCCI reacts</a></strong></p>

<p>At the point when gotten some information about something similar during the post-match presser, the batting sensation said she is centered around aiding the team and satisfying her obligations instead of looking for 'validation from people'.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I do read the criticism about my strike rate but as I've said earlier also, I don't seek validation from people," Raj, the India Test and ODI captain, said after sealing a 220-run chase and her side's thrilling four-wicket win on Saturday in Worcester with an unbeaten 75. "I have played for a long time, and I know that I have a certain responsibility in the team. I don't look to please people, I'm here to play the role that's assigned to me accordingly, by the team management," she said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Mithali Raj indented up three successive half-centuries in the ODIs against England. Her team may have lost the series 1-2 however she kept stacking up runs and mooring the middle-order. The 38-year-old currently has more than 7300 runs in ODIs, 2364 runs in T20Is, and 669 runs in Test matches.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"When you're chasing a target, you pick your bowlers, you pick the length, and you pick the areas. And because I am in good flow, I know I need to make the best use of me in the middle. In a way the batting unit revolves around me - that's the job that's been given to me by the coach," she said,</p>

<p>"I look to not get bogged down because somewhere I do know that the top order is already in the dugout and it was important for me to understand the situation how I can manoeuvre and try to get the match as close as possible with the batters who are yet to come and the batters that I had in the middle. And I guess I need to give credit also to Sneh Rana because that partnership was very, very crucial. She kept her calm, which is very important in such situations," she added&nbsp;</p>

<p>Team Indian will now face the hosts in a three-match T20I series, which starts on July 9 in Northampton.</p>


India women’s Test and ODI skipper Mithali Raj on Saturday became highest run-getter across format in women's cricket. She exceeded past former England cricketer Charlotte Edwards, surpassing her aggregate of 10,273 runs.

India women’s Test and ODI skipper Mithali Raj on Saturday became highest run-getter across format in women's cricket. She exceeded past former England cricketer Charlotte Edwards, surpassing her aggregate of 10,273 runs. Mithali Raj arrived at the accomplishment during last ODI against has England. While pursuing a 220-run target, the Indian captain played a significant thump of 75 not out, directing her side to a 4-wicket win. She was the reliable entertainer with the bat in the three-match series, scoring 206 runs at an average of 103. In any case, she was reprimanded for her strike rate. ALSO READ: India captain Mithali Raj shatters huge batting record; BCCI reacts At the point when gotten some information about something similar during the post-match presser, the batting sensation said she is centered around aiding the team and satisfying her obligations instead of looking for 'validation from people'. "I do read the criticism about my strike rate but as I've said earlier also, I don't seek validation from people," Raj, the India Test and ODI captain, said after sealing a 220-run chase and her side's thrilling four-wicket win on Saturday in Worcester with an unbeaten 75. "I have played for a long time, and I know that I have a certain responsibility in the team. I don't look to please people, I'm here to play the role that's assigned to me accordingly, by the team management," she said. Mithali Raj indented up three successive half-centuries in the ODIs against England. Her team may have lost the series 1-2 however she kept stacking up runs and mooring the middle-order. The 38-year-old currently has more than 7300 runs in ODIs, 2364 runs in T20Is, and 669 runs in Test matches. "When you're chasing a target, you pick your bowlers, you pick the length, and you pick the areas. And because I am in good flow, I know I need to make the best use of me in the middle. In a way the batting unit revolves around me - that's the job that's been given to me by the coach," she said, "I look to not get bogged down because somewhere I do know that the top order is already in the dugout and it was important for me to understand the situation how I can manoeuvre and try to get the match as close as possible with the batters who are yet to come and the batters that I had in the middle. And I guess I need to give credit also to Sneh Rana because that partnership was very, very crucial. She kept her calm, which is very important in such situations," she added Team Indian will now face the hosts in a three-match T20I series, which starts on July 9 in Northampton.

Cricket: ‘I don’t look to please people’, Mithali Raj on criticism regarding her strike rate

<p>Mithali Raj on Saturday achieved a huge feat in her already illustrious career. The 38-year-old went past former England's batter Charlotte Edwards to become the leading run-scorer across formats in international cricket.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-ranji-trophy-to-return-bcci-announces-fixtures-for-2021-22-domestic-season-395582" hreflang="en">Cricket: Ranji Trophy to return, BCCI announces fixtures for 2021-22 domestic season</a></p>

<p>The Indian skipper and Edwards are the only two women cricketers to have breached the 10,000-run mark in international cricket. As the skipper of Women in Blue, Mithali Raj has scored 6015 runs in 179 games. She is second to Edwards, who has 6728 runs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>BCCI congratulated the Indian skipper for the achievement and took to Twitter for the record for the leading international run-scorer in both men's and women's cricket belong to cricketers from India with Raj joining Sachin Tendulkar.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="und">🙌 🙌<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> 🇮🇳 <a href="https://t.co/VRUMcDofGe">pic.twitter.com/VRUMcDofGe</a></p>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1411535599652249603?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 4, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Mithali Raj achieved this feat against England, where she led the team from the front to avoid a clean sweep in the third ODI. Raj scored an unbeaten 75 to pull off a thrilling win for Team India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After being named the Player of the Match, Mithali Raj said on Sky Sports: "I never gave up in the middle. It's being in the middle because you can't win the match sitting out in the dugout. I wanted to win the game for the team. I just needed to get the partnership to take it to the last.</p>

<p>"That's something that kept me going through the innings. I knew in the middle overs I could manage the game. When you have young players in the side, you need to guide them along, that's a responsibility."</p>

<p>It was Mithali Raj's 87th half-century donning the blue jersey.</p>


Mithali Raj on Saturday achieved a huge feat in her already illustrious career. The 38-year-old went past former England's batter Charlotte Edwards to become the leading run-scorer across formats in international cricket.

Mithali Raj on Saturday achieved a huge feat in her already illustrious career. The 38-year-old went past former England's batter Charlotte Edwards to become the leading run-scorer across formats in international cricket. ALSO READ: Cricket: Ranji Trophy to return, BCCI announces fixtures for 2021-22 domestic season The Indian skipper and Edwards are the only two women cricketers to have breached the 10,000-run mark in international cricket. As the skipper of Women in Blue, Mithali Raj has scored 6015 runs in 179 games. She is second to Edwards, who has 6728 runs. BCCI congratulated the Indian skipper for the achievement and took to Twitter for the record for the leading international run-scorer in both men's and women's cricket belong to cricketers from India with Raj joining Sachin Tendulkar. 🙌 🙌#TeamIndia 🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/VRUMcDofGe — BCCI (@BCCI) July 4, 2021 × Mithali Raj achieved this feat against England, where she led the team from the front to avoid a clean sweep in the third ODI. Raj scored an unbeaten 75 to pull off a thrilling win for Team India. After being named the Player of the Match, Mithali Raj said on Sky Sports: "I never gave up in the middle. It's being in the middle because you can't win the match sitting out in the dugout. I wanted to win the game for the team. I just needed to get the partnership to take it to the last. "That's something that kept me going through the innings. I knew in the middle overs I could manage the game. When you have young players in the side, you need to guide them along, that's a responsibility." It was Mithali Raj's 87th half-century donning the blue jersey.

India captain Mithali Raj shatters huge batting record; BCCI reacts

<p>India women's ODI and Test team skipper Mithali Raj and men's team senior off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin are set to be selected for the prestigious Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna award.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Khel Ratna Award is the most noteworthy sporting honor in India, while the Arjuna Award is likewise a renowned award for Indian athletes. It is the fantasy of each Indian sportsperson to win these honors.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to ANI on Wednesday that Indian women's ODI and Test skipper Mithali Raj has been suggested for the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna grant at the National Sports Awards 2021. Indian men's all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin has likewise been suggested.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-it-was-a-different-feeling-kane-williamson-on-lifting-the-test-mace-394760" hreflang="en">Cricket: 'It was a different feeling': Kane Williamson on lifting the Test mace</a></p>

<p>"We had a detailed discussion and it was decided to send in the names of Ashwin and women's Test and ODI skipper Mithali's name for the Khel Ratna. We are recommending Dhawan again for the Arjuna while we will also suggest the names of Rahul and Bumrah."</p>

<p>Ravichandran Ashwin has been outstanding amongst other all-rounders in current Test cricket, while Mithali is probably the best player in women's cricket.</p>

<p>Ravichandran Ashwin, who is now an Arjuna awardee like Mithali Raj, has likewise been a reliable entertainer for India in Test cricket. He has taken 413 wickets in 79 Tests other than 150 and 42 scalps in ODIs and T20s however he doesn't play for India in the more limited overs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Mithali Raj keeps on being probably the greatest name in Indian cricket. She finished 22 years in worldwide cricket last week. The 38-year-old is additionally the leading run-getter with in excess of 7000 runs.</p>

<p>Men's team batsmen Shikhar Dhawan and KL Rahul and pacer Jasprit Bumrah will be suggested for the Arjuna grant. BCCI has chosen not to send any names from the women's group for the Arjuna award.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Shikhar Dhawan, who will lead India in the impending limited-overs series in Sri Lanka, is recommended for Arjuna Award. The 35-year-old southpaw has scored 5977 runs in 142 ODIs other than 2315 and 1673 Test and T20 runs individually.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Last year, five Indian athletes got the Khel Ratna grant. Rohit Sharma was the solitary cricketer among the five competitors.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Prior to Rohit Sharma, just Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni, and Sachin Tendulkar had won the Khel Ratna award. It will be fascinating to check whether Mithali Raj can turn into the first Indian women cricketer to get this honour.</p>


India women's ODI and Test team skipper Mithali Raj and men's team senior off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin are set to be selected for the prestigious Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna award.

India women's ODI and Test team skipper Mithali Raj and men's team senior off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin are set to be selected for the prestigious Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna award. The Khel Ratna Award is the most noteworthy sporting honor in India, while the Arjuna Award is likewise a renowned award for Indian athletes. It is the fantasy of each Indian sportsperson to win these honors. According to ANI on Wednesday that Indian women's ODI and Test skipper Mithali Raj has been suggested for the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna grant at the National Sports Awards 2021. Indian men's all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin has likewise been suggested. ALSO READ: Cricket: 'It was a different feeling': Kane Williamson on lifting the Test mace "We had a detailed discussion and it was decided to send in the names of Ashwin and women's Test and ODI skipper Mithali's name for the Khel Ratna. We are recommending Dhawan again for the Arjuna while we will also suggest the names of Rahul and Bumrah." Ravichandran Ashwin has been outstanding amongst other all-rounders in current Test cricket, while Mithali is probably the best player in women's cricket. Ravichandran Ashwin, who is now an Arjuna awardee like Mithali Raj, has likewise been a reliable entertainer for India in Test cricket. He has taken 413 wickets in 79 Tests other than 150 and 42 scalps in ODIs and T20s however he doesn't play for India in the more limited overs. Mithali Raj keeps on being probably the greatest name in Indian cricket. She finished 22 years in worldwide cricket last week. The 38-year-old is additionally the leading run-getter with in excess of 7000 runs. Men's team batsmen Shikhar Dhawan and KL Rahul and pacer Jasprit Bumrah will be suggested for the Arjuna grant. BCCI has chosen not to send any names from the women's group for the Arjuna award. Shikhar Dhawan, who will lead India in the impending limited-overs series in Sri Lanka, is recommended for Arjuna Award. The 35-year-old southpaw has scored 5977 runs in 142 ODIs other than 2315 and 1673 Test and T20 runs individually. Last year, five Indian athletes got the Khel Ratna grant. Rohit Sharma was the solitary cricketer among the five competitors. Prior to Rohit Sharma, just Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni, and Sachin Tendulkar had won the Khel Ratna award. It will be fascinating to check whether Mithali Raj can turn into the first Indian women cricketer to get this honour.

Cricket: BCCI nominates Mithali Raj and Ravichandran Ashwin for Khel Ratna: Reports

<p>India captain Mithali Raj has returned to the top five of the&nbsp;ICC Women’s ODI Player Rankings after top-scoring for India with 72 in the opening match of their three-match series against England in Bristol.</p>

<p>The 38-year-old, who has completed 22 years in international cricket, rescued her side from a precarious 27 for two but India’s total of 201 for eight was not challenging enough for England, who will be defending their ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup title in New Zealand next year.</p>

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">In the latest <a href="https://twitter.com/MRFWorldwide?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MRFWorldwide</a> ICC Women's ODI Player Rankings for batting:<br />
<br />
↗️ <a href="https://twitter.com/M_Raj03?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@M_Raj03</a> enters top five<br />
↗️ <a href="https://twitter.com/natsciver?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@natsciver</a> moves up one spot<br />
<br />
Full list: <a href="https://t.co/KjDYT8qgqn">https://t.co/KjDYT8qgqn</a> <a href="https://t.co/szonwdMmn9">pic.twitter.com/szonwdMmn9</a></p>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1409788064944201732?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 29, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Mithali, who had led India to the final of the last World Cup played at Lord’s in 2017, has gained three slots to reach the fifth position after the Bristol knock. The formerly top-ranked batter returns to the top five for the first time since October 2019.</p>

<p>There was not much else to write home about for the India side in terms of rankings, with all-rounder Pooja Vastrakar re-entering in 97th place among batters and 88th among bowlers. Hard-hitting opener Shafali Verma, the top-ranked T20I batter, has entered the ODI rankings in 120th place after scoring a 14-ball 15 on debut.</p>

<p>England opener Tammy Beaumont has consolidated her top position after her player of the match effort, gaining 26 rating points to reach 791 after her unbeaten 87 while Natalie Sciver’s 74 not out sees her inch up from ninth to the eighth position&nbsp;in the latest women’s ranking update, which is carried out on Tuesdays.</p>

<p>In the bowlers’ list, fast bowler Anya Shrubsole has progressed three places to eighth after grabbing two wickets in the match while left-arm spinner Sophie Ecclestone, top-ranked in T20Is, has gained four slots to reach 10th position with a haul of three for 40 that included the scalps of Mithali and Harmanpreet Kaur. Kate Cross has moved up three places to 25th.</p>


India captain Mithali Raj has returned to the top five of the ICC Women’s ODI Player Rankings after top-scoring for India with 72 in the opening match of their three-match series against England in Bristol.

India captain Mithali Raj has returned to the top five of the ICC Women’s ODI Player Rankings after top-scoring for India with 72 in the opening match of their three-match series against England in Bristol. The 38-year-old, who has completed 22 years in international cricket, rescued her side from a precarious 27 for two but India’s total of 201 for eight was not challenging enough for England, who will be defending their ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup title in New Zealand next year. In the latest @MRFWorldwide ICC Women's ODI Player Rankings for batting: ↗️ @M_Raj03 enters top five ↗️ @natsciver moves up one spot Full list: https://t.co/KjDYT8qgqn pic.twitter.com/szonwdMmn9 — ICC (@ICC) June 29, 2021 × Mithali, who had led India to the final of the last World Cup played at Lord’s in 2017, has gained three slots to reach the fifth position after the Bristol knock. The formerly top-ranked batter returns to the top five for the first time since October 2019. There was not much else to write home about for the India side in terms of rankings, with all-rounder Pooja Vastrakar re-entering in 97th place among batters and 88th among bowlers. Hard-hitting opener Shafali Verma, the top-ranked T20I batter, has entered the ODI rankings in 120th place after scoring a 14-ball 15 on debut. England opener Tammy Beaumont has consolidated her top position after her player of the match effort, gaining 26 rating points to reach 791 after her unbeaten 87 while Natalie Sciver’s 74 not out sees her inch up from ninth to the eighth position in the latest women’s ranking update, which is carried out on Tuesdays. In the bowlers’ list, fast bowler Anya Shrubsole has progressed three places to eighth after grabbing two wickets in the match while left-arm spinner Sophie Ecclestone, top-ranked in T20Is, has gained four slots to reach 10th position with a haul of three for 40 that included the scalps of Mithali and Harmanpreet Kaur. Kate Cross has moved up three places to 25th.

Cricket: Mithali Raj back in top 5 ICC Women's ODI player rankings

<p>After a courageous display&nbsp;in the Test format, India Women will take on England Women in a three-match ODI series&nbsp;that starts at Bristol on Sunday, June 27.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India Women last played in the ODI series against South Africa in March. The series finished in harsh disillusionment as they yielded the series 4-1, with the batting and the bowling coming a cropper in various games.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Mithali Raj addressed the press conference ahead of the first ODI match. The Indian skipper was inquired as to why the Indian team inclined towards putting runs on the board instead of chasing them. She said: “We have defended totals in the past; we have the bowling attack to do that. Spinners especially have won matches irrespective of wickets. Even in England in the 2017 WC. It all depends on how as a team we put on a total if we bat first or if we have a total to defend, it boils down to the rhythm and timing of the batters and bowlers.”</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-preview-india-women-face-england-women-in-a-three-match-odi-series-394108" hreflang="en">Cricket - Preview: India Women face England Women in a three-match ODI series</a></p>

<p>26th June 1999: A day that got carved throughout the entire existence of Indian cricket as 17-year-old Mithali Raj strode put to bat for the first time. June 26 checks precisely a long time since Mithali Raj made her first appearance for India. She has proceeded to turn out to be seemingly the best player throughout the entire existence of Indian women's cricket.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We just arrived for our session, so no thought of celebrations yet. We have an important game. Feels nice to get up to messages congratulating me on my career. If I have to give one advice to my younger self: enjoy getting onto the ground representing your country. At that time, the expectation was so much that I didn’t realize the importance of wearing the blue jersey, that will be something I tell 16-year-old Mithali" - she answered by asking what advice would she give to her younger self.</p>

<p>Mithali Raj expects star teenager Shafali Verma to give India consistent beginnings at the top-order. Shafali Verma, who made a fabulous debut in the solitary Test match against England, is set to play her first ODI against similar rivals on Sunday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"There will be times when she gives us a head start. We would love that to be consistent but at the same time she’s a young kid, she’ll learn with experience, she'll also learn how to build an innings."</p>

<p>Mithali Raj said she has given the youngster full freedom of playing the manner in which she wants to. She added: "Since she's getting into playing the ODI format for the first time, I, as a captain would encourage her to play the way she enjoys playing, that's the style of batting she should do. If we lose early wickets, we as experienced batters in the middle-order are there to rebuild, or if we get a good start, take the momentum forward. We have the batting depth to do that."</p>


After a courageous display in the Test format, India Women will take on England Women in a three-match ODI series that starts at Bristol on Sunday, June 27. India Women last played in the ODI series against South Africa in March.

After a courageous display in the Test format, India Women will take on England Women in a three-match ODI series that starts at Bristol on Sunday, June 27. India Women last played in the ODI series against South Africa in March. The series finished in harsh disillusionment as they yielded the series 4-1, with the batting and the bowling coming a cropper in various games. Mithali Raj addressed the press conference ahead of the first ODI match. The Indian skipper was inquired as to why the Indian team inclined towards putting runs on the board instead of chasing them. She said: “We have defended totals in the past; we have the bowling attack to do that. Spinners especially have won matches irrespective of wickets. Even in England in the 2017 WC. It all depends on how as a team we put on a total if we bat first or if we have a total to defend, it boils down to the rhythm and timing of the batters and bowlers.” ALSO READ: Cricket - Preview: India Women face England Women in a three-match ODI series 26th June 1999: A day that got carved throughout the entire existence of Indian cricket as 17-year-old Mithali Raj strode put to bat for the first time. June 26 checks precisely a long time since Mithali Raj made her first appearance for India. She has proceeded to turn out to be seemingly the best player throughout the entire existence of Indian women's cricket. “We just arrived for our session, so no thought of celebrations yet. We have an important game. Feels nice to get up to messages congratulating me on my career. If I have to give one advice to my younger self: enjoy getting onto the ground representing your country. At that time, the expectation was so much that I didn’t realize the importance of wearing the blue jersey, that will be something I tell 16-year-old Mithali" - she answered by asking what advice would she give to her younger self. Mithali Raj expects star teenager Shafali Verma to give India consistent beginnings at the top-order. Shafali Verma, who made a fabulous debut in the solitary Test match against England, is set to play her first ODI against similar rivals on Sunday. "There will be times when she gives us a head start. We would love that to be consistent but at the same time she’s a young kid, she’ll learn with experience, she'll also learn how to build an innings." Mithali Raj said she has given the youngster full freedom of playing the manner in which she wants to. She added: "Since she's getting into playing the ODI format for the first time, I, as a captain would encourage her to play the way she enjoys playing, that's the style of batting she should do. If we lose early wickets, we as experienced batters in the middle-order are there to rebuild, or if we get a good start, take the momentum forward. We have the batting depth to do that."

Cricket: Will encourage Shafali Verma to enjoy her batting, says Mithali Raj

<p>The three-match ODI series between England women's and India women's will kick-off&nbsp;on Sunday. The first match of the series will be played at County Ground, Bristol. The two teams played an energizing Test match last week which wound up in a draw. The hosts as of late reported their squad for this series and have included some new faces for the group.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Then again, Team India should settle on a significant choice on the initial mix with Shafali Verma included for the ODI squad interestingly. Notwithstanding, Shafali Verma has now discovered a spot in the ODI series and she can possibly set the stage ablaze. Without a doubt, Shafali Verma will open the innings close by Smriti Mandhana.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The last series against South Africa is verification enough of how the Indian side requirements to reexamine their batting in the middle-order and the runs need to come at an energetic speed. It is fair to say that this series against England will help India check their groundwork for the following year's World Cup.</p>

<p>England women, then again, will be truly happy with playing at their home conditions. Their last ODI series was against New Zealand where they won by 2-1.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ</strong>:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-west-indies-have-to-function-as-a-team-to-win-the-t20-world-cup-says-nicholas-pooran-394078" hreflang="en">Cricket: West Indies have to function as a team to win the T20 World Cup, says Nicholas Pooran</a></p>

<h2>Head-to-Head</h2>

<p>Both the groups have met in 69 ODIs up until this point, of which England has won 37 matches. The Indian team arose successfully in 30 games while two games were called off.</p>

<h2>England&nbsp;</h2>

<p>England skipper Heather Knight has scored 2935 runs in 99 innings in her ODI vocation. She needs 65 additional runs to turn into the fourth English women cricketer to complete 3000 ODI runs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sophie Ecclestone was the highest wicket-taker in the solitary Test match, additionally, she is the highest wicket-taker for England women's against India, she has 15 wickets in nine innings up until this point.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>England's Probable Playing XI:</strong> Tammy Beaumont, Sophia Dunkley, Heather Knight, Nat Sciver, Amy Jones (Wk), Fran Wilson, Lauren Winfield-Hill, Sophie Ecclestone, Sarah Glenn, Anya Shrubsole, Katherine Brunt.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>India&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Mithali Raj has scored 10131 runs in her international vocation up until this point. She needs to score 143 runs in this series to go past Charlotte Edwards and become the most noteworthy run-getter in Women's cricket.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Shafali Verma is good to go to make her ODI debut in this game and will open the innings. She will end up being the third youngest Indian to open the innings in her debut match after Thirush Kamin, and Mithali Raj.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>India's Probable Playing XI:</strong> Smriti Mandhana, Shafali Verma, Mithali Raj, Harmanpreet Kaur, Jemimah Rodrigues, Deepti Sharma, Indrani Roy (wk), Pooja Vastrakar, Sneh Rana, Jhulan Goswami, Shikha Pandey.</p>


The three-match ODI series between England women's and India women's will kick-off on Sunday. The first match of the series will be played at County Ground, Bristol.

The three-match ODI series between England women's and India women's will kick-off on Sunday. The first match of the series will be played at County Ground, Bristol. The two teams played an energizing Test match last week which wound up in a draw. The hosts as of late reported their squad for this series and have included some new faces for the group. Then again, Team India should settle on a significant choice on the initial mix with Shafali Verma included for the ODI squad interestingly. Notwithstanding, Shafali Verma has now discovered a spot in the ODI series and she can possibly set the stage ablaze. Without a doubt, Shafali Verma will open the innings close by Smriti Mandhana. The last series against South Africa is verification enough of how the Indian side requirements to reexamine their batting in the middle-order and the runs need to come at an energetic speed. It is fair to say that this series against England will help India check their groundwork for the following year's World Cup. England women, then again, will be truly happy with playing at their home conditions. Their last ODI series was against New Zealand where they won by 2-1. ALSO READ: Cricket: West Indies have to function as a team to win the T20 World Cup, says Nicholas Pooran Head-to-Head Both the groups have met in 69 ODIs up until this point, of which England has won 37 matches. The Indian team arose successfully in 30 games while two games were called off. England England skipper Heather Knight has scored 2935 runs in 99 innings in her ODI vocation. She needs 65 additional runs to turn into the fourth English women cricketer to complete 3000 ODI runs. Sophie Ecclestone was the highest wicket-taker in the solitary Test match, additionally, she is the highest wicket-taker for England women's against India, she has 15 wickets in nine innings up until this point. England's Probable Playing XI: Tammy Beaumont, Sophia Dunkley, Heather Knight, Nat Sciver, Amy Jones (Wk), Fran Wilson, Lauren Winfield-Hill, Sophie Ecclestone, Sarah Glenn, Anya Shrubsole, Katherine Brunt. India Mithali Raj has scored 10131 runs in her international vocation up until this point. She needs to score 143 runs in this series to go past Charlotte Edwards and become the most noteworthy run-getter in Women's cricket. Shafali Verma is good to go to make her ODI debut in this game and will open the innings. She will end up being the third youngest Indian to open the innings in her debut match after Thirush Kamin, and Mithali Raj. India's Probable Playing XI: Smriti Mandhana, Shafali Verma, Mithali Raj, Harmanpreet Kaur, Jemimah Rodrigues, Deepti Sharma, Indrani Roy (wk), Pooja Vastrakar, Sneh Rana, Jhulan Goswami, Shikha Pandey.

Cricket - Preview: India Women face England Women in a three-match ODI series

<p>Without precedent for more than 2,400 days, the women's team will challenge a Test, against England Women in Bristol beginning Wednesday, June 16.</p>

<p>India skipper Mithali Raj believes the scheduled Test matches against England and Australia later in the year lead to a multi-format series turning into the standard and in the end a World Test Championship for the women's game.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Addressing the media just before the one-off Test against England in Bristol, Mithali Raj said: "I feel that this Test and the pink ball Test in Australia opens the channel to have a three format bilateral series. You ask any modern-day cricketer, they eventually want to play the longer format. Maybe in the coming years, it might lead to a World Test Championship. We have points too, in this series, so it's going to be exciting and we're looking forward to it."</p>

<p>India are additionally on the cusp of exceptional achievement. Having won its last three Tests, two against England and one against South Africa, a fourth will see Mithali Raj and Co. level with Australia for the most continuous Test match triumphs. Be that as it may, the captain isn't really thinking about it as well.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I am not looking at any record. It never crossed any of our minds. We just want to go out and take it session by session. We want to get in with a good confident mind out there" - she added.</p>

<p>Mithali Raj and a youthful crew - the vast majority of whom are set to make their Test debut in Bristol - are facing England again, with scarcely any red-ball practice.</p>

<p>Mithali, who has just played 10 Tests in a vocation crossing more than twenty years, is adhering to the positives.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-preview-long-wait-comes-to-an-end-as-india-women-face-england-women-in-one-off-test-391636" hreflang="en">Cricket - Preview: Long wait comes to an end as India Women face England Women in one-off Test</a></strong></p>

<p>"Competitively I've played lesser Tests. I would have liked to play more Tests. I won't get down to thinking if my game has evolved. My preparation has been going on. Talking to other cricketers who have played this format is helping me prepare for this Test" - she said.</p>

<p>Given that this squad prevalently plays white-ball cricket and the tight window, the Indian training staff is zeroing in on the mental health of the team, especially the adolescents.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We did brief them about how the long format is played. For someone who is making their debut, we don't want to burden them with pressure or responsibility. Thy should enjoy playing" - she added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Harmanpreet Kaur, the vice-captain had the option to have a discussion with her male counterpart&nbsp;Ajinkya Rahane and Mithali Raj says these channels have been worked with inside too.</p>

<p>"Ramesh got the seniors to speak to other players who aren't as experienced. Jhulan is talking to the fast bowlers, I am speaking to the batters" - she said.</p>


Without precedent for more than 2,400 days, the women's team will challenge a Test, against England Women in Bristol beginning Wednesday, June 16. India skipper Mithali Raj believes the scheduled Test matches against England and Australia later in the year lead to a multi-format series turning into the standard and in the end a World Test Championship for the women's game.

Without precedent for more than 2,400 days, the women's team will challenge a Test, against England Women in Bristol beginning Wednesday, June 16. India skipper Mithali Raj believes the scheduled Test matches against England and Australia later in the year lead to a multi-format series turning into the standard and in the end a World Test Championship for the women's game. Addressing the media just before the one-off Test against England in Bristol, Mithali Raj said: "I feel that this Test and the pink ball Test in Australia opens the channel to have a three format bilateral series. You ask any modern-day cricketer, they eventually want to play the longer format. Maybe in the coming years, it might lead to a World Test Championship. We have points too, in this series, so it's going to be exciting and we're looking forward to it." India are additionally on the cusp of exceptional achievement. Having won its last three Tests, two against England and one against South Africa, a fourth will see Mithali Raj and Co. level with Australia for the most continuous Test match triumphs. Be that as it may, the captain isn't really thinking about it as well. "I am not looking at any record. It never crossed any of our minds. We just want to go out and take it session by session. We want to get in with a good confident mind out there" - she added. Mithali Raj and a youthful crew - the vast majority of whom are set to make their Test debut in Bristol - are facing England again, with scarcely any red-ball practice. Mithali, who has just played 10 Tests in a vocation crossing more than twenty years, is adhering to the positives. ALSO READ: Cricket - Preview: Long wait comes to an end as India Women face England Women in one-off Test "Competitively I've played lesser Tests. I would have liked to play more Tests. I won't get down to thinking if my game has evolved. My preparation has been going on. Talking to other cricketers who have played this format is helping me prepare for this Test" - she said. Given that this squad prevalently plays white-ball cricket and the tight window, the Indian training staff is zeroing in on the mental health of the team, especially the adolescents. "We did brief them about how the long format is played. For someone who is making their debut, we don't want to burden them with pressure or responsibility. Thy should enjoy playing" - she added. Harmanpreet Kaur, the vice-captain had the option to have a discussion with her male counterpart Ajinkya Rahane and Mithali Raj says these channels have been worked with inside too. "Ramesh got the seniors to speak to other players who aren't as experienced. Jhulan is talking to the fast bowlers, I am speaking to the batters" - she said.

In future, women's cricket could have a World Test Championship: Mithali Raj

<p>India Women will play a one-off Test against the England Women in Bristol. The match will start on June 16 and it&nbsp;will be India Women's first Test match in almost seven years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Indian Women's cricket squad has been quite possibly the best unit in the game's longest format and are chasing the record of becoming the team with the most successive Test wins in women's cricket.&nbsp;</p>

<p>There is a ton of exhilaration about this Test as numerous players of the Indian team might want to substantiate themselves in this format too. Then again, the England women's team will enjoy a home benefit on their side.</p>

<h2>Head to Head</h2>

<p>The two teams have confronted each other in 13 Tests, with England Women winning once. India Women have arisen successfully twice, while the remaining 10 matches finishing&nbsp;in draws.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/players-picked-ajinkya-rahanes-brain-about-batting-in-test-cricket-harmanpreet-kaur-ahead-of-england-match-391426" hreflang="en">Players picked Ajinkya Rahane's brain about batting in Test cricket: Harmanpreet Kaur ahead of England match</a></strong></p>

<p>India Women, who have won the last two Test matches played between the different sides.</p>

<h2>Weather Report</h2>

<p>The climate gauge for this match is somewhat obscure, the main day will have a few veils of mist however the remainder of the days are required to have some downpour, we may see a few rain delays and the game may head towards a draw. The temperature is predicted to be around 25°C with winds of 12 km/h bowling around on an average.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>England&nbsp;</h2>

<p>England Women, who have been in incredible structure this year. Albeit the English women played their last Test in 2019, they have sufficient involvement with the form of skipper Heather Knight and star all-rounders Nat Sciver and Katherine Brunt. The hosts have a decent blend of youth and experience, holding them in great stead.</p>

<p>With 41 wickets in only 12 Tests, Katherine Brunt is the highest wicket-taker in Women's Test cricket among dynamic cricketers. She will want to get some early wickets for her team to put the Indian players&nbsp;under pressure.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-ramesh-powar-is-always-involved-in-the-game-says-harmanpreet-kaur-391438" hreflang="en">Cricket: Ramesh Powar is always involved in the game, says Harmanpreet Kaur</a></strong></p>

<p>The England skipper is quite possibly the most experienced player on the side with more than 4,500 runs in worldwide cricket. Heather Knight, who bats at number 3 for England in Tests, will hope to secure the innings.</p>

<p><strong>England Team Probable XI</strong>: Tammy Beaumont, Amy Jones (wk), Heather Knight (c), Natalie Sciver, Georgia Elwiss, Lauren Winfield, Katherine Brunt, Anya Shrubsole, Sophie Ecclestone, Kate Cross/Emily Arlott, and Mady Villiers.</p>

<h2>India&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Any semblance of Smriti Mandhana and Harmanpreet Kaur, who are essential players in the Indian Women's limited-overs series, will be key as they tackle England. Jhulan Goswami - The veteran pacer will be an imperative pinion in the group if the Indian ladies are to win the one-off Test on English soil. Jhulan Goswami has a decent Test record of 40 wickets from only 10 Test matches including three five-wicket hauls. Team India would anticipate that she should concoct the goods with the ball, close by Poonam Yadav, and Deepti Sharma.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Shafali Varma's forceful style of play at the top has procured her a spot in the Indian women's Test team for the visit through England. The bold opener's skill of taking on bowlers from the beginning of the innings conveys her intimidation even in the game's longest format.</p>

<p>One of the legends of women's cricket in India, Mithali Raj, will step onto the field at Bristol wanting to broaden her fabulous record in Test cricket. The 38-year-old averages more than 50 in Test cricket.</p>

<p><strong>India Team Probable XI:</strong> Smriti Mandhana, Shafali Verma/Priya Punia, Punam Raut, Mithali Raj (c), Harmanpreet Kaur, Deepti Sharma, Taniya Bhatia (wk), Jhulan Goswami, Shikha Pandey, Poonam Yadav, and Ekta Bisht.</p>

<p>England Women will begin the Test as the reasonable top choices due to home advantage being the key, one can't trifle with India Women. With worldwide whizzes, for example, Mithali Raj and Heather Knight set to take the field on Wednesday, we are in for an outright cracker of a Test match.</p>


India Women will play a one-off Test against the England Women in Bristol. The match will start on June 16 and it will be India Women's first Test match in almost seven years.

India Women will play a one-off Test against the England Women in Bristol. The match will start on June 16 and it will be India Women's first Test match in almost seven years. The Indian Women's cricket squad has been quite possibly the best unit in the game's longest format and are chasing the record of becoming the team with the most successive Test wins in women's cricket. There is a ton of exhilaration about this Test as numerous players of the Indian team might want to substantiate themselves in this format too. Then again, the England women's team will enjoy a home benefit on their side. Head to Head The two teams have confronted each other in 13 Tests, with England Women winning once. India Women have arisen successfully twice, while the remaining 10 matches finishing in draws. ALSO READ:Players picked Ajinkya Rahane's brain about batting in Test cricket: Harmanpreet Kaur ahead of England match India Women, who have won the last two Test matches played between the different sides. Weather Report The climate gauge for this match is somewhat obscure, the main day will have a few veils of mist however the remainder of the days are required to have some downpour, we may see a few rain delays and the game may head towards a draw. The temperature is predicted to be around 25°C with winds of 12 km/h bowling around on an average. England England Women, who have been in incredible structure this year. Albeit the English women played their last Test in 2019, they have sufficient involvement with the form of skipper Heather Knight and star all-rounders Nat Sciver and Katherine Brunt. The hosts have a decent blend of youth and experience, holding them in great stead. With 41 wickets in only 12 Tests, Katherine Brunt is the highest wicket-taker in Women's Test cricket among dynamic cricketers. She will want to get some early wickets for her team to put the Indian players under pressure. ALSO READ:Cricket: Ramesh Powar is always involved in the game, says Harmanpreet Kaur The England skipper is quite possibly the most experienced player on the side with more than 4,500 runs in worldwide cricket. Heather Knight, who bats at number 3 for England in Tests, will hope to secure the innings. England Team Probable XI: Tammy Beaumont, Amy Jones (wk), Heather Knight (c), Natalie Sciver, Georgia Elwiss, Lauren Winfield, Katherine Brunt, Anya Shrubsole, Sophie Ecclestone, Kate Cross/Emily Arlott, and Mady Villiers. India Any semblance of Smriti Mandhana and Harmanpreet Kaur, who are essential players in the Indian Women's limited-overs series, will be key as they tackle England. Jhulan Goswami - The veteran pacer will be an imperative pinion in the group if the Indian ladies are to win the one-off Test on English soil. Jhulan Goswami has a decent Test record of 40 wickets from only 10 Test matches including three five-wicket hauls. Team India would anticipate that she should concoct the goods with the ball, close by Poonam Yadav, and Deepti Sharma. Shafali Varma's forceful style of play at the top has procured her a spot in the Indian women's Test team for the visit through England. The bold opener's skill of taking on bowlers from the beginning of the innings conveys her intimidation even in the game's longest format. One of the legends of women's cricket in India, Mithali Raj, will step onto the field at Bristol wanting to broaden her fabulous record in Test cricket. The 38-year-old averages more than 50 in Test cricket. India Team Probable XI: Smriti Mandhana, Shafali Verma/Priya Punia, Punam Raut, Mithali Raj (c), Harmanpreet Kaur, Deepti Sharma, Taniya Bhatia (wk), Jhulan Goswami, Shikha Pandey, Poonam Yadav, and Ekta Bisht. England Women will begin the Test as the reasonable top choices due to home advantage being the key, one can't trifle with India Women. With worldwide whizzes, for example, Mithali Raj and Heather Knight set to take the field on Wednesday, we are in for an outright cracker of a Test match.

Cricket - Preview: Long wait comes to an end as India Women face England Women in one-off Test

<p class="MsoNormal">Indian women’s Test and ODI skipper Mithali Raj on Tuesday reacted to the ongoing episode surrounding tennis player Naomi Osaka boycotting media engagements citing anxiety issues. Mithali opined that she never felt the need to boycott media as women’s cricket needs media support. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Osaka on Tuesday pulled out of the ongoing French Open to take care of her mental health following a massive fall-out as the Japanese tennis star had decided to boycott press conferences during the Grand Slam.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes">&nbsp;</span>Osaka had said she goes through anxiety before facing the world media.&nbsp;Osaka is the world's highest-earning female athlete, making $37.4 million in 2020. She burst onto the scene in 2018 with a maiden Slam win at the US Open.&nbsp;</p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">Women's cricket needs media support: Mithali Raj</h2>

<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">"Well, I think it is tough to be in quarantine for any athlete. But, I think getting into a tournament, we do not feel that. Personally, I have not felt that I should forgo a press conference because women's cricket right now where it stands, it needs media support and it is important for players also to sort of try and help in the growth of the sport. So we need to try to promote the sport," said Mithali during a virtual press conference.&nbsp;</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-ramesh-powar-will-help-in-giving-required-push-to-the-team-harmanpreet-kaur-388759" hreflang="en">Cricket: 'Ramesh Powar will help in giving required push to the team': Harmanpreet Kaur</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Many have come forward to support Osaka’s stance of protecting and taking care of her mental health including superstars like Serena Williams.</p>

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="und"><a href="https://t.co/LN2ANnoAYD">pic.twitter.com/LN2ANnoAYD</a></p>
— NaomiOsaka大坂なおみ (@naomiosaka) <a href="https://twitter.com/naomiosaka/status/1399422304854188037?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 31, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Even former India cricketer Mohammed Kaif on Tuesday said players from different sports should have the choice to avoid media if that helps in ensuring better mental health. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">"It is high time we acknowledge the issue of mental health in sports. More so in individual sports. In cricket, a coach or a senior player can be a backup option for a captain but not in tennis. Let's be sensitive, players in their weak moments should be allowed to avoid the media," tweeted Kaif.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-osaka-reveals-bouts-of-depression-after-shock-french-open-withdrawal-388742" hreflang="en">Tennis: Osaka reveals 'bouts of depression' after shock French Open withdrawal</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">It's high time we acknowledge the issue of mental health in sports. More so in individual sports. In cricket, a coach or a senior player can be a back up option for a captain but not in tennis. Let's be sensitive, players in their weak moments should be allowed to avoid media.</p>
— Mohammad Kaif (@MohammadKaif) <a href="https://twitter.com/MohammadKaif/status/1399620207241428992?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 1, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Meanwhile, the Indian women’s team will depart for their tour of the UK on June 2 as they gear up to take on England in a one-off Test, three ODIs, and as many T20Is, starting June 16.<o:p></o:p></p>


Indian women’s Test and ODI skipper Mithali Raj on Tuesday reacted to the ongoing episode surrounding tennis player Naomi Osaka boycotting media engagements citing anxiety issues.

Indian women’s Test and ODI skipper Mithali Raj on Tuesday reacted to the ongoing episode surrounding tennis player Naomi Osaka boycotting media engagements citing anxiety issues. Mithali opined that she never felt the need to boycott media as women’s cricket needs media support. Osaka on Tuesday pulled out of the ongoing French Open to take care of her mental health following a massive fall-out as the Japanese tennis star had decided to boycott press conferences during the Grand Slam. Osaka had said she goes through anxiety before facing the world media. Osaka is the world's highest-earning female athlete, making $37.4 million in 2020. She burst onto the scene in 2018 with a maiden Slam win at the US Open. Women's cricket needs media support: Mithali Raj "Well, I think it is tough to be in quarantine for any athlete. But, I think getting into a tournament, we do not feel that. Personally, I have not felt that I should forgo a press conference because women's cricket right now where it stands, it needs media support and it is important for players also to sort of try and help in the growth of the sport. So we need to try to promote the sport," said Mithali during a virtual press conference. ALSO READ: Cricket: 'Ramesh Powar will help in giving required push to the team': Harmanpreet Kaur Many have come forward to support Osaka’s stance of protecting and taking care of her mental health including superstars like Serena Williams. pic.twitter.com/LN2ANnoAYD — NaomiOsaka大坂なおみ (@naomiosaka) May 31, 2021 × Even former India cricketer Mohammed Kaif on Tuesday said players from different sports should have the choice to avoid media if that helps in ensuring better mental health. "It is high time we acknowledge the issue of mental health in sports. More so in individual sports. In cricket, a coach or a senior player can be a backup option for a captain but not in tennis. Let's be sensitive, players in their weak moments should be allowed to avoid the media," tweeted Kaif. ALSO READ: Tennis: Osaka reveals 'bouts of depression' after shock French Open withdrawal It's high time we acknowledge the issue of mental health in sports. More so in individual sports. In cricket, a coach or a senior player can be a back up option for a captain but not in tennis. Let's be sensitive, players in their weak moments should be allowed to avoid media. — Mohammad Kaif (@MohammadKaif) June 1, 2021 × Meanwhile, the Indian women’s team will depart for their tour of the UK on June 2 as they gear up to take on England in a one-off Test, three ODIs, and as many T20Is, starting June 16.

Women's cricket needs media support: India's Mithali Raj opines on Naomi Osaka controversy

<p>Ramesh Powar took over the reins from WV Raman to coach the Indian women's team. Despite taking the Women in Blue to the final of the T20 World Cup 2020, the Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC) decided to replace WV Raman with Ramesh Powar, who has been associated with the team on a short-term basis in 2018.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-he-should-be-our-first-choice-keeper-wriddhiman-saha-on-rishabh-pant-386562" hreflang="en">Cricket- 'He should be our first-choice keeper': Wriddhiman Saha on Rishabh Pant</a></p>

<p>However, a report by Cricbuzz suggested that BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly was not impressed with this decision and has formally expressed disappointment and displeasure over Raman's removal. According to the report, Ganguly was surprised with the decision despite taking the team into the finals of the ICC tournament.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Mithali Raj and Co., under WV Raman, have played five ODI series and five T20I series between December 2018 and March 2020. The Women in Blue won four series in ODIs out of five. Their only loss came against South Africa at home in 2021. But, Team India struggled in the T20Is yet they bounced back and managed to get into the T20 WC final at the jam-packed MCG.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The three-member Cricket Advisory Committee comprising Sulakshana Naik, Madan Lal and Rudra Pratap Singh interviewed the 35 applicants and unanimously agreed on Powar’s candidature.</p>

<p>A former international, Powar played 2 Tests and 31 ODIs for India. Post his playing career, he took up cricket coaching and is an ECB Level 2 certified coach and has also attended BCCI-NCA Level 2 coaching course.</p>

<p>A former coach of the Indian Women’s Team from July-November 2018, it was under him that India qualified for the semi-final of the ICC T20 Women’s World Cup in 2018 and also won 14 T20 matches in a row.</p>

<p>He recently coached the Mumbai senior team that won the Vijay Hazare Trophy and has worked at the National Cricket Academy as a Bowling Coach.</p>

<p>Powar’s last term as the head coach of the Indian women’s team was cut short after a spat with ODI skipper Mithali Raj. However, it would be interesting to see how both Powar and Mithali continue in the 50-over circuit.</p>


Ramesh Powar took over the reins from WV Raman to coach the Indian women's team. Despite taking the Women in Blue to the final of the T20 World Cup 2020, the Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC) decided to replace WV Raman with Ramesh Powar, who has been associated with the team on a short-term basis in 2018.

Ramesh Powar took over the reins from WV Raman to coach the Indian women's team. Despite taking the Women in Blue to the final of the T20 World Cup 2020, the Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC) decided to replace WV Raman with Ramesh Powar, who has been associated with the team on a short-term basis in 2018. ALSO READ: Cricket- 'He should be our first-choice keeper': Wriddhiman Saha on Rishabh Pant However, a report by Cricbuzz suggested that BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly was not impressed with this decision and has formally expressed disappointment and displeasure over Raman's removal. According to the report, Ganguly was surprised with the decision despite taking the team into the finals of the ICC tournament. Mithali Raj and Co., under WV Raman, have played five ODI series and five T20I series between December 2018 and March 2020. The Women in Blue won four series in ODIs out of five. Their only loss came against South Africa at home in 2021. But, Team India struggled in the T20Is yet they bounced back and managed to get into the T20 WC final at the jam-packed MCG. The three-member Cricket Advisory Committee comprising Sulakshana Naik, Madan Lal and Rudra Pratap Singh interviewed the 35 applicants and unanimously agreed on Powar’s candidature. A former international, Powar played 2 Tests and 31 ODIs for India. Post his playing career, he took up cricket coaching and is an ECB Level 2 certified coach and has also attended BCCI-NCA Level 2 coaching course. A former coach of the Indian Women’s Team from July-November 2018, it was under him that India qualified for the semi-final of the ICC T20 Women’s World Cup in 2018 and also won 14 T20 matches in a row. He recently coached the Mumbai senior team that won the Vijay Hazare Trophy and has worked at the National Cricket Academy as a Bowling Coach. Powar’s last term as the head coach of the Indian women’s team was cut short after a spat with ODI skipper Mithali Raj. However, it would be interesting to see how both Powar and Mithali continue in the 50-over circuit.

Cricket- BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly not impressed with WV Raman's sacking: Reports

<p>Mithali Raj will lead Team India in the 2022 World Cup and Indian cricketing legend Sunil Gavaskar had a piece of advice for the Women in Blue before they head into the competition.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The former opener recalled the 2017 Women's World Cup final at Lord's where Team India lost to England. Gavaskar said that the English team intimidated India's lower order batters with their attitude and urged them to learn from Virat and Co. and glare them back.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I was with my wife at Lord's watching the 2017 Women ODI World Cup final. What I saw was that English girls came hard at your lower order and intimidated them with their attitude.</p>

<p>"I would want the girls to glare back at the opposition instead of looking down. I feel body language is a very important aspect. Look at Virat Kohli, he stares at opposition and the rest of the team does that," Gavaskar said during a virtual book launch.</p>

<p>Earlier, skipper Mithali Raj gave a hint of retirement after the tournament. She on Saturday said that the 2022 50-over World Cup in New Zealand will be her ‘swansong’ following 23 renowned years in worldwide cricket.</p>

<p>"It's been 21 years of international cricket and I know 2022 is my swansong, The World Cup," Mithali Raj said during the virtual launch of the book 1971: The Beginning of India's Cricketing Greatness.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The last year is equal to the 20 years of my international cricket," she added.</p>

<p>"The importance of being in a very good emotional and mental set-up, knowing that there will be very few tours before the World Cup." Indian women are set to play four bilateral series -- away tours in England, Australia, and New Zealand and a home series against West Indies sandwiched in between.</p>

<p>"Every tour is important for me as a batter as to how I am going to get the team to regroup and build a team for the World Cup," she said.</p>

<p>She even talked about the team's aggression.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I would want the girls to glare back at the opposition instead of looking down. I feel body language is a very important aspect. Look at Virat Kohli, he stares at opposition and the rest of the team does that," said Mithali Raj.</p>


Mithali Raj will lead Team India in the 2022 World Cup and Indian cricketing legend Sunil Gavaskar had a piece of advice for the Women in Blue before they head into the competition.

Mithali Raj will lead Team India in the 2022 World Cup and Indian cricketing legend Sunil Gavaskar had a piece of advice for the Women in Blue before they head into the competition. The former opener recalled the 2017 Women's World Cup final at Lord's where Team India lost to England. Gavaskar said that the English team intimidated India's lower order batters with their attitude and urged them to learn from Virat and Co. and glare them back. "I was with my wife at Lord's watching the 2017 Women ODI World Cup final. What I saw was that English girls came hard at your lower order and intimidated them with their attitude. "I would want the girls to glare back at the opposition instead of looking down. I feel body language is a very important aspect. Look at Virat Kohli, he stares at opposition and the rest of the team does that," Gavaskar said during a virtual book launch. Earlier, skipper Mithali Raj gave a hint of retirement after the tournament. She on Saturday said that the 2022 50-over World Cup in New Zealand will be her ‘swansong’ following 23 renowned years in worldwide cricket. "It's been 21 years of international cricket and I know 2022 is my swansong, The World Cup," Mithali Raj said during the virtual launch of the book 1971: The Beginning of India's Cricketing Greatness. "The last year is equal to the 20 years of my international cricket," she added. "The importance of being in a very good emotional and mental set-up, knowing that there will be very few tours before the World Cup." Indian women are set to play four bilateral series -- away tours in England, Australia, and New Zealand and a home series against West Indies sandwiched in between. "Every tour is important for me as a batter as to how I am going to get the team to regroup and build a team for the World Cup," she said. She even talked about the team's aggression. "I would want the girls to glare back at the opposition instead of looking down. I feel body language is a very important aspect. Look at Virat Kohli, he stares at opposition and the rest of the team does that," said Mithali Raj.

'Look at Kohli, he stares at opposition': Gavaskar's piece of advice to Mithali Raj and Co. ahead of World Cup 2022

<p>26th June 1999 - A day that got carved in the history of Indian cricket as 17-year-old Mithali Raj strode out to bat for the first time.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The adolescent sensation with the sheer coarseness and assurance to perform well for the country, prearranged her way into the record books by scoring an all-around aggregated hundred on debut.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a male-dominated sport, it is the ascent of Mithali Raj as a youthful adolescent batting wonder to perhaps the best player to have donned the Indian national jersey. She has been one of the flag-bearer of the Indian Women’s cricket team and her influence on the other Women cricketers has been immense.</p>

<p>In a career spanning more than two decades, Mithali Raj has been at the cutting edge of the Indian batting unit and has without any assistance carried the responsibility of scoring runs for the team.</p>

<p>Mithali Raj on Saturday said that the 2022 50-over World Cup in New Zealand will be her ‘swansong’ following 23 renowned years in worldwide cricket.</p>

<p>"It's been 21 years of international cricket and I know 2022 is my swansong, The World Cup," Mithali Raj said during the virtual launch of the book 1971: The Beginning of India's Cricketing Greatness.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/starts-like-a-million-dollar-baby-but-goes-down-rapidly-samsons-form-leaves-gambhir-frustrated-379849" hreflang="en">'Starts like a million-dollar baby but goes down rapidly': Samson's form leaves Gambhir frustrated</a></strong></p>

<p>"The last year is equal to the 20 years of my international cricket," she added.</p>

<p>"The importance of being in a very good emotional and mental set-up, knowing that there will be very few tours before the World Cup." Indian women are set to play four bilateral series -- away tours in England, Australia, and New Zealand and a home series against West Indies sandwiched in between.</p>

<p>"Every tour is important for me as a batter as to how I am going to get the team to regroup and build a team for the World Cup," she said.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-maxwell-to-dhawan-five-players-who-have-rocked-ipl-2021-so-far-379570" hreflang="en">From Maxwell to Dhawan: Five players who have rocked IPL 2021 so far</a></strong></p>

<p>"Yes, I am very optimistic looking at the girls and in the manner, they have been working with whatever facilities they have in these times and focus and enthusiasm that a series is coming up."</p>

<p>She admitted that fast bowling is one territory that the team needs to enhance and fabricate a pool viewing in the future as Jhulan Goswami additionally hits the business end of her profession.</p>

<p>"I would want the girls to glare back at the opposition instead of looking down. I feel body language is a very important aspect. Look at Virat Kohli, he stares at opposition and the rest of the team does that,"&nbsp;said Mithali Raj.<br />
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26th June 1999 - A day that got carved in the history of Indian cricket as 17-year-old Mithali Raj strode out to bat for the first time. The adolescent sensation with the sheer coarseness and assurance to perform well for the country, prearranged her way into the record books by scoring an all-around aggregated hundred on debut.

26th June 1999 - A day that got carved in the history of Indian cricket as 17-year-old Mithali Raj strode out to bat for the first time. The adolescent sensation with the sheer coarseness and assurance to perform well for the country, prearranged her way into the record books by scoring an all-around aggregated hundred on debut. In a male-dominated sport, it is the ascent of Mithali Raj as a youthful adolescent batting wonder to perhaps the best player to have donned the Indian national jersey. She has been one of the flag-bearer of the Indian Women’s cricket team and her influence on the other Women cricketers has been immense. In a career spanning more than two decades, Mithali Raj has been at the cutting edge of the Indian batting unit and has without any assistance carried the responsibility of scoring runs for the team. Mithali Raj on Saturday said that the 2022 50-over World Cup in New Zealand will be her ‘swansong’ following 23 renowned years in worldwide cricket. "It's been 21 years of international cricket and I know 2022 is my swansong, The World Cup," Mithali Raj said during the virtual launch of the book 1971: The Beginning of India's Cricketing Greatness. ALSO READ: 'Starts like a million-dollar baby but goes down rapidly': Samson's form leaves Gambhir frustrated "The last year is equal to the 20 years of my international cricket," she added. "The importance of being in a very good emotional and mental set-up, knowing that there will be very few tours before the World Cup." Indian women are set to play four bilateral series -- away tours in England, Australia, and New Zealand and a home series against West Indies sandwiched in between. "Every tour is important for me as a batter as to how I am going to get the team to regroup and build a team for the World Cup," she said. ALSO READ: From Maxwell to Dhawan: Five players who have rocked IPL 2021 so far "Yes, I am very optimistic looking at the girls and in the manner, they have been working with whatever facilities they have in these times and focus and enthusiasm that a series is coming up." She admitted that fast bowling is one territory that the team needs to enhance and fabricate a pool viewing in the future as Jhulan Goswami additionally hits the business end of her profession. "I would want the girls to glare back at the opposition instead of looking down. I feel body language is a very important aspect. Look at Virat Kohli, he stares at opposition and the rest of the team does that," said Mithali Raj.

Mithali Raj: 'I know 2022 World Cup is my swansong'

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