Punam Raut has announced her retirement from international cricket, effective Thursday, October 15, 2026. The former India opener shared the news via an Instagram post, bringing an end to a distinguished international career spanning more than 17 years.
Raut debuted in ODIs against the West Indies in March 2009 and played her last international match—an ODI versus England—in June 2021. During that span, she featured in three ODI World Cups and four T20 World Cups, earning a reputation as one of the most reliable top-order batters in women’s cricket.
“From the streets of Mumbai to wearing the Indian jersey, this journey has been nothing short of a blessing. A journey filled with sacrifices, struggles, unforgettable victories, tough lessons, and moments I will cherish for a lifetime. Representing India was never just a dream fulfilled; it was a privilege I carried with immense pride,” Raut wrote in her Instagram post reflecting on the journey.
Punam Raut’s International Career by the Numbers
In 73 ODIs, Raut scored 2,299 runs at an average of 34.83, including three centuries and 15 half-centuries. She added 719 runs in 35 T20 Internationals. Her Test record comprises four matches and 264 runs, with a career-best 130 against South Africa in 2014.
The 2017 Women’s World Cup remains the highlight of her career. Raut amassed 381 runs during the tournament, including a 109 against Ireland that featured a record-breaking 320-run opening stand with Deepti Sharma. She also scored 86 in the final against England at Lord’s, where India narrowly missed out on the championship.
She also featured in the day-night Test against Australia in 2021, scoring 36 in the first innings. The match attracted widespread attention when Raut walked off after edging the ball to the wicketkeeper, despite the on-field umpire ruling in her favor. The gesture was widely lauded as an example of sportsmanship.
Raut, who celebrated her 37th birthday on October 14, 2026, shared her gratitude in the retirement announcement.
“As I close this chapter of my international cricket career, my heart is filled with gratitude for everyone who believed in me, stood by me, and became a part of my journey. Cricket gave me more than a career. It gave me a purpose, an identity, and a family,” she wrote.
Life After International Cricket for Punam Raut
Raut indicated that her connection to cricket will continue beyond her playing career. In her Instagram message, she outlined plans to give back to the sport in some capacity.
“The player in me may step aside, but the love for this game will never retire. My next innings is about giving back to the game that gave me everything,” she concluded.
Specific details regarding her future involvement have not yet been confirmed.
