Punam Raut's Sudden Retirement Leaves Cricket World Wondering

Dr. Annelies De Vos · 2026-10-16

Punam Raut, the Indian top-order batter, has called it quits from all forms of international cricket. She made the announcement on Instagram, just a day after turning 37. Raut represented India from 2009 to 2021, playing four Tests, 73 ODIs, and 35 T20Is. Her decision came as a surprise to many, marking the end of an era in Indian women's cricket. ### A Heartfelt Farewell In her Instagram post, Raut said she made the decision after much thought and reflection. She described representing India as the greatest honor of her life. "Cricket shaped my character, taught me resilience, and gave me memories I will carry for good," she wrote. She also expressed gratitude to the Mumbai Cricket Association for backing her in her early years, saying the opportunities and guidance she received there laid the foundation of her career. ### A Glittering ODI Career Raut played most of her cricket in the ODI format, where she scored 2,299 runs at an average of 34.83. Her record includes three centuries and 15 half-centuries. She featured in three ODI World Cups: 2009, 2013, and 2017. In the 2017 edition, she hit a century against Australia in a league match and then top-scored for India with 86 in the final against England. India fell short of the trophy that year, but Raut believes the tournament changed the future of the women's game in the country and inspired a generation of young girls. She also holds a place in the record books through a 320-run opening stand with Deepti Sharma against Ireland in Potchefstroom in 2017. Raut retired hurt on 109 off 116 balls in that match, while Deepti made 188 off 160. ### Test and T20I Contributions Raut began her Test career with a duck but made up for it in her third Test, scoring 130 against South Africa in Mysore in 2014. In T20Is, she scored 719 runs at an average of 27.65 and a strike rate of 92.17, including four half-centuries. She played in four T20 World Cups: 2009, 2010, 2012, and 2014. Her best efforts came in a match-winning 54 not out against Pakistan in 2009 and a 56 off 52 balls against West Indies in 2014. Raut played her last game for India in a drawn Test against Australia in Carrara in 2021. She scored 36 in the first innings and finished unbeaten on 41 in the second. Her retirement comes as India begin a new phase under Smriti Mandhana, who has taken over as captain. ### What's Next for Indian Women's Cricket? Raut's departure leaves a void in the Indian batting lineup, but her legacy will continue to inspire. As the team moves forward under new leadership, fans will remember Raut's contributions fondly. Her journey from a young girl in Mumbai to an international cricket star is a testament to dedication and hard work. For more cricket news and updates, visit JeetWin Blog!