Pakistan’s Cricket Star Bismah Maroof Retires from International Cricket

Pakistan’s cricket world was left in shock as one of its most iconic female players, Bismah Maroof, announced her retirement from international cricket. The 32-year-old former captain made the unexpected decision to hang up her boots, bringing an end to a glittering career that spanned over a decade.

Bismah’s journey in cricket was nothing short of remarkable. Despite facing numerous challenges and setbacks, she emerged as a trailblazer for women’s cricket in Pakistan. Her dedication and passion for the game were evident in every match she played, earning her the title of the most-capped Pakistani woman cricketer with 276 matches under her belt.

Having made her ODI debut against India in 2006 and her T20I debut against Ireland in 2009, Bismah quickly established herself as a key player in the national team. Known for her elegant left-handed batting and right-arm leg-spin, she amassed over 6,000 runs and claimed 80 wickets in international cricket.

Bismah’s decision to retire comes after she took a sabbatical in 2020 due to fitness concerns and again in 2021 following the birth of her daughter. Her presence at the 2022 World Cup in New Zealand, where she brought her infant along, made headlines and highlighted the challenges faced by female athletes balancing motherhood and professional sports.

In a heartfelt statement, Bismah expressed her gratitude to her family and the Pakistan Cricket Board for their unwavering support throughout her career. The PCB, in turn, lauded her contributions to women’s cricket in the country and acknowledged her role in leading the team to success in various international tournaments.

As fans bid farewell to a true cricketing legend, Bismah’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations of female cricketers in Pakistan and beyond. Her remarkable achievements on the field and her resilience off it have left an indelible mark on the sport, cementing her status as a true icon of the game.