Pakistan’s Record-Breaking Cricketer Bismah Maroof Announces Retirement

Bismah Maroof, Pakistan’s most prominent woman cricketer and former captain, has announced her retirement from international cricket after a successful 17-year career. The 32-year-old left-handed batter leaves behind a legacy of breaking barriers and championing women’s rights in a patriarchal society.

Maroof, who scored 3369 runs in 136 one-day internationals and 2893 in 140 Twenty20 internationals, holds both Pakistan records. She captained Pakistan in 62 T20Is and 34 ODIs, leaving a mark with 27 wins in T20Is and 16 wins in ODIs.

Her journey was not just about cricket but also about advocating for gender equality. In 2021, Maroof gave birth, prompting the PCB to introduce a maternity clause in central contracts for women cricketers, ensuring paid maternity leave for players.

During the 2022 Women’s World Cup in New Zealand, Maroof and her daughter Fatima gained a massive following after videos of Indian players playing with the baby went viral on social media. The ICC even shared a photo of the mother-daughter duo, highlighting the spirit of cricket between India and Pakistan.

Maroof expressed her gratitude to the PCB for their support during her motherhood, enabling her to continue representing her country at the highest level. She won gold medals in the 2010 and 2014 Asian Games and participated in multiple Women’s ODI World Cups and T20 World Cups.

As Maroof bids farewell to international cricket, she leaves a lasting impact on the sport and society, paving the way for future generations of women cricketers in Pakistan. Her dedication, resilience, and advocacy for women’s rights will be remembered and celebrated in the cricketing world.