Just before the start of the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup 2025, the cricketing world is taken by surprise with the retirement of Indian cricketer Gouher Sultana. The spin bowler, who has been out of the Indian team for 11 years, with her last appearance in 2014, has decided to retire from international cricket. Sultana has been a significant contributor to the Indian team in the past.
Sultana made her ODI debut in May 2008 against Pakistan. In her ODI career, she took 66 wickets in 50 matches, averaging 19.39. She had three instances of taking four wickets in a match. In the T20 format, she played 37 matches and claimed 29 wickets, with an average of 26.27. She also participated in the Women’s Premier League, playing four matches.
Sultana shared an emotional post on Instagram to announce her retirement. In her message, she wrote, “Smiling, I say goodbye to cricket. After years of wearing the Indian jersey with pride and passion, the time has come to reflect on the emotional journey. I announce my retirement from all formats of cricket. I am honored to have played top-level cricket for India. Thank you to all teammates, coaches, selectors, and support staff.” She added, “Cricket will always be a part of me. Even though my playing career has concluded, my love for the sport remains. I want to contribute to cricket, inspire, mentor, and serve the game in new ways. This is not a retirement. It is merely the end of a golden chapter.”