In what could become the biggest story in women’s cricket in years, rumors are swirling that legendary batter Mithali Raj is being considered for a sensational comeback to lead India’s campaign at the Women’s World Cup 2026. Multiple sources close to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) have revealed that top officials and selectors are in secret talks with Mithali, hoping to convince the iconic former captain to don the Indian jersey one more time.
The 41-year-old, who retired in 2022 as the highest run-scorer in women’s ODI history, has remained closely involved in Indian cricket through commentary and mentoring roles. But with India’s middle order struggling in recent international series, and concerns growing about the team’s ability to handle pressure in crunch World Cup games, insiders say BCCI bosses see Mithali as the perfect experienced head to steady the ship.
A senior BCCI source told this publication, “Mithali’s fitness levels are exceptional even today. She has continued training privately, and her leadership and temperament are exactly what India needs if we want to go deep in the 2026 World Cup.” The same source claimed selectors have reached out to gauge her interest, with discussions expected to intensify over the next few weeks.
The rumors have set social media ablaze, with fans flooding X (formerly Twitter) under hashtags like #MithaliComeback and #WWC2026Dream, begging the star batter to return. Meanwhile, former teammates have offered mixed reactions: some, like Jhulan Goswami, have openly supported the idea, saying Mithali’s experience could be a “game-changer,” while others question whether recalling a retired player sends the wrong message to young talents waiting for opportunities.
If Mithali does return, it could reunite India’s most successful batting duo of the last decade, with Smriti Mandhana expected to remain India’s star opener. Cricket experts believe the pair could form a dream partnership capable of toppling even the strongest sides like Australia and England.
However, challenges loom. Mithali has not played competitive cricket for over three years, and critics argue the pace of the modern women’s game has increased since her retirement. Whether she can quickly adapt to the current demands remains to be seen.
The BCCI has yet to comment officially, but as whispers grow louder, the cricket world is on edge: will India’s greatest women’s batter script the ultimate fairytale comeback at the 2026 Women’s World Cup?