A tribute to a silent pillar of Indian women’s cricket
For every superstar with a seamless journey, there are countless others whose stories are a rich tapestry of resilience,
dedication, and quiet contribution. The career of Gouher Sultana, the veteran left-arm spinner from Hyderabad,
belongs firmly to the latter category. Her recent retirement from all forms of the game at the age of 37 marks the end of
a long and distinguished chapter, but it also provides a poignant moment to reflect on a player who, for over a decade,
was a silent and unyielding pillar of the Indian women’s cricket team.
A Master of Guile and Control
Her bowling style was a classic example of slow left-arm orthodox—a craft built on flight, guile, and unwavering accuracy.
Unlike many modern spinners who prioritize variations and flatter trajectories, Sultana’s strength lay in her ability to
deceive batters in the air. She used the crease well, creating subtle changes in angle, and her natural loop allowed the ball
to dip and spin, often drawing batters into false shots. Her economy rate was a standout feature of her bowling; in a game
increasingly dominated by power-hitting, her ability to tie down one end and build pressure was an invaluable asset,
particularly in the one-day format.
Key Career Statistics
ODIs
- Matches: 50
- Wickets: 66
- Average: 19.39
- Economy Rate: 3.32
- Best Figures: 4/4 vs Sri Lanka
T20Is
- Matches: 37
- Wickets: 29
- Average: 26.27
- Economy Rate: 5.73
- Best Figures: 3/17 vs Bangladesh
A look at her career statistics paints a picture of a consistent and reliable performer. These numbers are more than just
statistics; they are a chronicle of her consistent effort and quiet excellence. She wasn’t a headline-grabber, but she was a
bowler who got the job done, time and time again.
A Legacy Beyond the Field
Perhaps the most significant aspect of Sultana’s career was her contribution to India’s major tournament campaigns.
She was a part of two ODI World Cups (2009 and 2013) and three T20 World Cups (2009, 2012, and 2014). Her presence in
these tournaments spoke volumes about her tactical value and the trust she had earned from the team management. She often
bowled at crucial moments, tasked with breaking partnerships or controlling the scoring rate, roles she executed with
commendable composure.
After her last international appearance in 2014, a period of uncertainty followed. Yet, it was the love for the game
that kept her going, prompting her to continue in domestic cricket. This resilience eventually paid off when she made a
remarkable return in the Women’s Premier League (WPL), representing the UP Warriorz. Her participation in
the WPL, well into her late thirties, was not just about proving a point but about her enduring passion for the sport.
A Fitting Farewell
The WPL became a fitting final stage for her competitive career. She brought her wealth of experience to a new generation
of players, offering mentorship and guidance. Her transition from an international player to a domestic veteran and now to
a BCCI Level 2 coach exemplifies her lifelong commitment to cricket. She is now poised to contribute to the game in a new
capacity, shaping the future of Indian women’s cricket from the sidelines.
In her retirement announcement on Instagram, Gouher Sultana described representing India as the
“greatest honour” of her life. Her words are not just a farewell but a profound statement on the transformative
power of sport. They reflect a journey that was about more than just numbers and wins; it was about character, community,
and the unyielding spirit of a player who dedicated her life to the game.