Gouher Sultana Announces Retirement from International Cricket
Gouher Sultana Bids Farewell to International Cricket
New Delhi [India], August 22: Gouher Sultana, the left-arm spinner from India, has officially declared her retirement from international cricket as of Thursday.
With an impressive record of 66 ODI wickets at an average of 19.39, Sultana ranks third among Indian bowlers who have taken at least 50 wickets in One Day Internationals.
She participated in two ODI World Cups, in 2009 and 2013, where she secured 12 wickets across 11 matches, averaging 30.58. Additionally, Sultana played in three T20 World Cups from 2009 to 2014, claiming seven wickets with an economy rate of 5.81.
In her heartfelt Instagram announcement, Sultana reflected, “From the dusty bylanes of Hyderabad to the grand stages of world cricket, this journey has been nothing short of a dream – one etched with sweat, sacrifice, and countless hours of silent grind.”
She continued, “Representing India at the highest level in World Cups and tours has been the greatest honor of my life. Every wicket taken, every dive in the field, and every huddle with my teammates has shaped both the cricketer and the person I am today.”
Recently, Sultana was selected by UP Warriorz (UPW) for the upcoming Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2024. She participated in two matches during the tournament, without taking any wickets in five overs. In 2025, she played another two games for UPW, bowling just one over. At 37, Sultana is also a certified BCCI Level 2 coach.
“There were days of triumph and nights of introspection. Injuries, comebacks, heartbreaks, and high-fives – the game gave me everything. Now, as I step away from this cherished chapter, I do so with no regrets, only overwhelming gratitude,” she expressed.
“To my teammates – thank you for the camaraderie and the countless shared battles. To the coaches, selectors, support staff, and administrators who believed in me, thank you for giving wings to my ambition. To my mother and sister – you were my anchor, my storm, and my calm,” she added.
“Cricket will always be home. Though the curtain falls on my career as a player, my love for the game burns brighter than ever. I look forward to contributing to the sport in new ways to inspire, guide, and serve the game that made me who I am. This isn’t goodbye. It’s just the end of a golden chapter,” Gouher concluded.