Pakistan cricket legend Bismah Maroof has announced her immediate retirement from all formats of the game, bidding farewell to a remarkable career that spanned nearly two decades.
Since her debut in 2006, Maroof has been a stalwart figure in Pakistan’s cricketing landscape, featuring in 276 international matches. Her bat wielded magic, accumulating 6,262 runs and clinching 80 wickets along the way, a testament to her multifaceted skills on the field.
Maroof’s legacy shines brightly, particularly in the annals of Pakistani women’s cricket. She holds the prestigious titles of the highest scorer in both ODIs, boasting 3,369 runs, and T20Is, with an impressive 2,983 runs to her name. Notably, she stands alone as the sole Pakistani cricketer to surpass the 3,000-run milestone in Women’s ODIs, a feat that speaks volumes of her prowess with the bat.
Reflecting on her decision, Maroof expressed her gratitude to her family for their unwavering support throughout her cricketing journey. She also extended heartfelt thanks to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for providing her with the platform to showcase her talent. Maroof acknowledged the pivotal role of PCB’s parental policy, which facilitated her representation of the country at the highest level while balancing the responsibilities of motherhood.
In a poignant message to her fans, Maroof expressed appreciation for their steadfast support, which served as a constant source of inspiration throughout her career. She also paid tribute to her fellow players, acknowledging the camaraderie shared on and off the field, a bond that she will cherish forever.
Maroof’s impact transcends mere statistics; she epitomizes consistency and dedication, holding the record for the highest number of appearances in Women’s ODIs for Pakistan, having graced the field in 136 matches. Her influence extends to T20Is, where she ranks as the second most-capped player with an impressive tally of 140 games.
As captain, Maroof led Pakistan in 96 matches, including prestigious tournaments such as the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup and the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup. Her leadership steered the team through eight editions of the Women’s T20 World Cup and four 50-over World Cups, leaving an indelible mark on Pakistan’s cricketing journey.
