Mithali Raj's decision to retire saw a flurry of messages on social media, while fans and followers of her game paid emotional tributes to the trailblazing batter. One of them was Srijit Mukherji, director of the biopic Shabaash Mithu, in which Tapsee Pannu essays the role of Mithali.

Srijit ruled out any possibility of a change in the narrative of the film, which is supposed to hit theatres a month later. "The narrative follows a certain journey, a certain rhythm and climax, and this announcement will not find a place in it," he says.

The announcement, he says, has had a huge imp act as "it brings forth a lot of messages, a lot of emotions from cricketers & fans." Says Srijit, "Many people who were not aware of how tall a legend she is, got an idea from social media and it may help them understand the enormity of the legend called Mithali. And her stature and her contribution goes beyond cricket in so many ways."

Srijit, however, wishes the highest run-scorer in women's international cricket had that one chance to play a grand finale, for her fans to be able to give her a standing ovation – something which every sportsperson yearns for. "Sachin Tendulkar got one tailor-made at Wankhede from his home crowd, which made for a fitting finale to an unbelievable career. Mithali could also have had a similar one. But it is entirely her decision to retire, we respect that," he adds.

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Taapsee, too, took to social media to share a heartfelt message for Mithali along with their photo after the announcement. She wrote, "Youngest ODI captain for Indian cricket Team. The only Indian cricketer to captain the team in 4 world cups and reach finals twice! Youngest cricketer to score 200 in a test match. Highest scoring Indian cricketer in the debut international match. The only indian cricketer to score 7 consecutive 50s in ODI 23 years from hustle to glory. Some personalities and their achievements are gender agnostic. You changed the game, now it's our turn to change the perspective! Etched in history OUR CAPTAIN forever @mithaliraj On to the next innings of life (sic)."