Stats: Mithali Raj becomes captain with most apperances in Women's World Cup

Skipper of India’s women’s cricket team, Mithali Raj has added another feather to her already-illustrious hat as she became the captain with most appearances in Women’s World Cup history. The 39-year-old achieved the feat by confirming her place in the playing XI in the ongoing clash against West Indies in Seddon Park in Hamilton. The encounter marked Mithali’s 24th appearance as skipper in Women’s World Cup.

She went past former Australian captain Belinda Clark, who had captained in 23 matches. As far as Raj’s leadership record in the gala tournament is concerned, India won 14 games under her, eight matches saw them suffering defeat and one clash got washed out due to rain. Mithali would like to enhance this record with a thumping win against the Women in Maroon.

Mithali Raj is the second-highest run-getter in Women’s World Cups

Notably, Raj’s first leadership assignment in World Cups was recorded in 2005. Although the Women in Blue haven’t tasted glory under her yet, the talismanic batter has been performing consistently. Her tally of 785 runs in the competition is only second to Belinda Clark, who score 952 runs in the tournament’s history.

Meanwhile, India have made a mixed start to their campaign in Women’s World Cup 2022. While they thrashed arch-rivals Pakistan by 107 runs in their opening fixture, the second game against New Zealand saw them suffering a 62-run defeat. Hence, they would like to bounce back against West Indies. However, India’s challenge won’t be easy as Stafanie Taylor’s team is coming off victories against defending champions England and hosts New Zealand.

Speaking of how the ongoing game has panned out so far, the coin landed in India’s favour and Mithali had no hesitation in batting first. While Yashika Bhatia attacked bowlers from the outset and scored 31 off 21 balls before perishing, her opening partner Smriti Mandhana made a steady fifty. Meanwhile, Raj couldn’t make her bat talk and fell prey to Hayley Matthews after scoring five off 11 deliveries.