Anjum Chopra Inducted into ICC Cricket Hall of Fame
New Delhi, July 12, 2026: Former India captain Anjum Chopra has been inducted into the ICC Cricket Hall of Fame, recognizing her outstanding contributions to cricket and her lasting influence on the growth of the women’s game.
A pioneering figure in Indian women’s cricket, Chopra was a mainstay at the top of the batting order during the late 1990s and early 2000s. Renowned for her consistency and leadership, she played a vital role in elevating India into a competitive force on the international stage.
During a distinguished 17-year international career, Chopra scored more than 3,500 runs across formats, captained the national team with distinction and became the first Indian woman to reach the milestone of 100 One-Day Internationals.
Reacting to the honour, Chopra dedicated the recognition to the many people who supported her journey, including her family, coaches, teachers and cricket administrators.
“As a kid growing up in a sporting household, I had heard stories of cricketing greats and momentous achievements. A dream to play for India got instilled very early on. I was encouraged to think big by my parents, teachers and coaches who have always been there to support me during tough times,” Chopra said, according to the ICC.
“I also got the timely support of administrators as I went on to wear the national colours with great pride. This honour—to be recognised amongst the game’s greatest—is an award for all those who have helped shape my career. I am thankful to all of them and delighted to be inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame,” she added.
Chopra’s influence extended well beyond her performances on the field, as she helped lay the foundation for the continued rise of women’s cricket in India.
She made her international debut in 1995 and quickly established herself as one of India’s most dependable batters. In 2002, she took over as captain, guiding the team through a pivotal period of development.
Under her leadership, India recorded several landmark achievements, including a home series whitewash of England and the team’s first overseas Test victory against South Africa. Chopra also starred during India’s run to the 2005 ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup final, finishing as the side’s highest run-scorer in the tournament.
Over the course of her career, Chopra represented India in six Women’s World Cups, amassed more than 3,500 international runs and became the country’s first woman to play 100 ODIs. Her achievements earned her prestigious honours, including the Arjuna Award and honorary life membership of the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC).
Following her retirement, Chopra has remained a prominent voice in the sport as a broadcaster, author and advocate for women’s cricket, continuing to play a significant role in promoting and developing the game in India.
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