Mithali Raj @200: Five Best ODI knocks of the Legend

#2 69* vs South Africa (2000)

Mithali uplifted the team in a low scoring encounter

Mithali Raj's international debut against Ireland, where she scored a whirlwind 114* - was followed by scores of 4 and 0 in her next couple of games. Despite her disappointing returns in the international circuit, her domestic form remained strong enough to keep her in contention for the Indian women's contingent to New Zealand, so as to play in the Women's World Cup 2000.

Raj was considered crucial for India's success in the tournament, and so it proved to be. She made a solid impact in India's opening game against South Africa, with her unbeaten half-century backing up the efforts of the Indian bowlers who earlier restricted the Protean girls for 128/8 in 50 overs.

In a chase of 129, Raj played 95 balls and struck 11 fours en-route to an unbeaten 69. Despite some keen bowling performances by the Indians, she was also elected best player of the match.

Mithali's place and worth in the squad would soon be known, as Team India struggled in her absence following her premature departure from the squad due to illness. The side bowed out in the semis, but not before the world saw two more of her crucial knocks, one against Netherlands and the other against England.