India defeated England by 270 runs at the Home of Cricket, but the celebrations soon turned into a heartfelt tribute for two players who have played a significant role in shaping the modern women’s game.
The emotional moments took place inside the dressing room after the conclusion of the match. India opener Smriti Mandhana presented Heather Knight with an India jersey featuring Knight’s name on the back before sharing a warm embrace with the former England captain.
Jemimah Rodrigues then hugged Tammy Beaumont as Indian players applauded the experienced opening batter. Beaumont was also presented with a jersey signed by the entire Indian team.
“Cricket is all about making memories, and we as the Indian team just want to leave you with a small memory on your last match for England. Congratulations and all the best for everything,” Jemimah Rodrigues said.
The tributes had begun earlier during the Test match when Indian players formed guard of honours for both Knight and Beaumont as they walked out to bat in their final appearances for England. The two cricketers received standing ovations from teammates, opponents and spectators at Lord’s, marking an emotional farewell at the iconic venue.
The occasion became even more memorable with the presence of Sachin Tendulkar, who met Knight and Beaumont during the match and congratulated them for their outstanding contributions to cricket. The England pair later shared photographs with the batting legend, adding another special moment to their farewell Test.
Wholesome moment as India present Tammy and Heather with a token of their appreciation 🤝 pic.twitter.com/GCNpMfDI4M
— England Cricket (@englandcricket) July 13, 2026
Heather Knight retires as one of England’s most influential cricketers after a 16-year international career. She represented England in more than 300 matches across formats and served as captain from 2016 to 2025, leading the team through one of the most successful phases in its history.
Knight’s greatest achievement came in 2017 when she guided England to Women’s World Cup glory at Lord’s. In a dramatic final, England defeated India by nine runs in front of a packed crowd, with Knight becoming only the third England captain to lift the trophy.
Apart from her leadership achievements, Knight established herself as one of England’s most reliable batters, scoring more than 7,000 international runs and playing a crucial role in strengthening England’s position in women’s cricket.
Tammy Beaumont announced her retirement after a remarkable international career that began in 2009. The 34-year-old has been one of England’s finest opening batters, scoring more than 8,000 international runs and holding the record as England Women’s leading ODI century-maker with 12 hundreds.
A key member of England’s 2017 World Cup-winning squad under Heather Knight’s leadership, Beaumont became known for her consistency at the top of the batting order. She is also among the select group of England women cricketers to have scored international centuries in all three formats.
The retirements of Heather Knight and Tammy Beaumont mark the end of a significant chapter in England women’s cricket. Both players leave behind lasting legacies built through performances, leadership and contributions that extend beyond statistics and trophies.
For India, the victory at Lord’s will remain a historic achievement in women’s cricket. However, the memorable images of Smriti Mandhana and Jemimah Rodrigues honouring Knight and Beaumont, the guard of honour from Indian players, and Sachin Tendulkar’s meeting with the retiring stars highlighted the lasting connections and respect that define the spirit of cricket.
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