India’s Jhulan Goswami leaves deep footprint after 20 years of great strides for women’s fast bowling
- Series win over England is an apt ending for the highest wicket-taker in women’s international cricket as she bows out after 20 years at the top
- From idolising Maradona to World Cup heroics of her own via testing teenage train rides, Goswami’s journey has been lengthy, punishing and made at brisk pace
It’s kind of funny to Indian cricketer Jhulan Goswami that she found her calling in fast bowling. Certainly, the thought occurred to her whenever she was injured.
“I felt it would have been better if I had not been a fast bowler … I would not have had so many injuries,” she said in jest, recalling those stresses and strains, before her swansong at Lord’s.
For the highest wicket-taker in women’s international cricket to make this quip on the eve of her international retirement was no less funny either. But as she bid the game adieu on Saturday, after India’s 3-0 one-day international (ODI) series sweep over England, the true essence of the 39-year-old’s words were reflected in the chorus of tributes that poured in for her.
“Her longevity as a fast bowler in women’s cricket is beyond belief,” tweeted Mithali Raj, the legendary Indian batter and former captain who retired in June. “We have played together since our under-19 days, and [Goswami’s] commitment to the game and her eternal optimism are lessons for all.”
England batter Tammy Beaumont echoed Raj. “It’s not just what she does on the pitch, she’s an absolutely lovely human,” Beaumont said. “She’s been great for the game and she’ll be a very big loss.”
