NEW DELHI: Pakistan batter Javeria Khan has bid farewell to her illustrious international cricket career spanning 15 years, announcing her retirement from the sport. With a legacy marked by remarkable performances and unwavering dedication, Javeria leaves behind a rich legacy in Pakistan's cricketing landscape.
Javeria, a cornerstone of Pakistan women's cricket, made her ODI debut against Sri Lanka in May 2008 and her T20I debut against Ireland in 2009. Javeria's career has been adorned with numerous accolades and milestones.
In her distinguished career, Javeria featured in 228 international matches, amassing 4,903 runs with the bat and claiming 28 wickets with her off-break bowling.
Expressing gratitude for the support she received throughout her career, Javeria expressed her appreciation for her family, teammates, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), and her fans.
"I want to call it a day and announce my retirement, however, I will be available for league cricket. I am grateful to the unwavering support I received throughout my career," said Javeria, acknowledging the pivotal role of her support system in her cricketing journey.
Renowned for her consistency and poise at the crease, Javeria retires as the second-highest run-scorer in both ODIs and T20Is for the Pakistan women's team.
Having represented Pakistan in four 50-over World Cups and all eight editions of the T20 World Cup, Javeria's international career is adorned with numerous achievements, including gold medals in the 2010 and 2014 Asian Games. Additionally, she captained the Pakistan women’s team in multiple ODIs and T20Is, showcasing her leadership prowess on the field.
Acknowledging Javeria's immense contributions to women's cricket in Pakistan, PCB Head of Women’s Cricket Tania Mallick expressed heartfelt gratitude on behalf of the board and cricket fans. Mallick highlighted Javeria's stellar records and her inspiring journey, expressing confidence that her legacy will motivate future generations of cricketers in the country.
"As Javeria announces her retirement, we reflect on her remarkable career and services she has rendered for Pakistan cricket. We thank her for her untiring commitment and wish her all the success in her future endeavors," stated Mallick, encapsulating the sentiments of the cricketing fraternity towards the departing legend.
(With inputs from IANS)
