ISLAMABAD: Bismah Maroof, the former captain, announced her retirement from cricket effective immediately on Thursday, as confirmed by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) in an official statement.
She made her ODI debut against India in 2006 and her T20I debut against Ireland in 2009. Maroof participated in 276 international matches, the highest among Pakistani women cricketers. Throughout her career, she scored 6,262 international runs, including 33 half-centuries, and took 80 international wickets.
“It is with a heavy heart that I bid farewell to the game I cherish the most. This journey has been remarkable, filled with trials, triumphs, and unforgettable moments,” remarked Maroof.
“I extend my deepest gratitude to my family, whose unwavering support has been my backbone from the very beginning.
“I also wish to thank the Pakistan Cricket Board for their trust in me and for providing the platform to exhibit my skills. Their support, especially in implementing the groundbreaking parental policy, has been instrumental in enabling me to represent my nation while being a mother.
“I am profoundly thankful to the fans whose steadfast support has been a constant source of motivation throughout my career, whether at home or abroad.
“Finally, I express my appreciation to my fellow players, who have become like family to me. The bond we shared on and off the field will forever hold a special place in my heart.”
Maroof clinched gold medals twice in the Asian Games in 2010 and 2014.
She led the team in 96 international matches and participated in four editions of the ICC Women’s 50-over World Cup (2009, 2013, 2017, and 2022), captaining the squad in the 2022 edition in New Zealand.
In T20Is, Maroof featured in eight editions of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup (2009, 2010, 2012, 2014, 2016, 2018, 2020, and 2023), captaining the side in the 2020 and 2023 editions held in Australia and South Africa, respectively.
