The 38-year-old stalwart of Indian girls’s cricket used to be some of the 12 sportspersons to obtain the Khel Ratna, the rustic’s perfect wearing honour, from President Ram Nath Kovind on the Rashtrapati Bhavan.
“Girls in game are robust catalysts of exchange and once they get the appreciation they deserve, it conjures up exchange in numerous different girls in need of to succeed in their desires,” Raj mentioned in a observation on her Twitter take care of.
“I sincerely hope that my adventure conjures up younger ladies all around the nation to pursue their desires and know that handiest whilst you dream are you able to make it occur.”
Really honoured and thankful to obtain the Primary Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award 🙏 https://t.co/79HZOV9Uox
— Mithali Raj (@M_Raj03) 1636811456000
She mentioned representing the rustic used to be her dream and receiving the award used to be a validation of the onerous paintings she had installed her over two decade lengthy illustrious profession ranging from 1999.
“When I used to be rising up and studying to play this superb sport, representing my nation used to be my dream. I all the time sought after to put on the blue jersey, which represents absolutely the pleasure we really feel for our country.
“One strives for mastery however there are such a large amount of variables and limitless parameters that once luck comes by way of, it ceaselessly is a results of hours of grind on a daily basis,” wrote Raj who has performed in 12 Assessments, 220 ODIs and 89 T20Is.
“This award is a validation of the ones hours, of the entire sacrifices a participant makes her whole lifestyles. I simply sought after to present cricket the entirety I had and I believe I’m satisfied that I have driven myself more difficult and more difficult to get to this momentous day.”
The Take a look at captain mentioned that any reputation from the federal government used to be particular and a reminder that the sport used to be a very powerful constituent of nationwide pleasure.
“We should proceed to present it our absolute best,” mentioned Raj.
“Lately, I’m honoured, proud and lucky to be part of Indian cricket. This adventure has been laborious however now not with out the enhance of my mentors, circle of relatives, pals and seniors who cleared the path for all folks and my teammates,” she wrote.
“I owe such a lot to my nation, my establishment Indian Railways, directors, selectors, coaches, running shoes, physiotherapists, masseuses, supporters and enthusiasts for his or her endurance and encouragement. This accolade isn’t mine on my own however I percentage it with everybody who has had an element to play in my adventure.”
Raj additionally thanked Top Minister Narendra Modi, Sports activities Minister Anurag Thakur, BCCI President Sourav Ganguly and Secretary Jay Shah.
