By Sapna 
Smriti Mandhana is one of the brightest names in Indian women’s cricket, having made a significant mark both in domestic and international cricket. Known for her elegant batting style, Mandhana’s journey to becoming a cricketing sensation is inspiring and reflects her resilience, dedication, and passion for the sport.
Early Life and Career
Smriti Mandhana was born on July 18, 1996, in Mumbai, Maharashtra. From a young age, she was passionate about cricket, encouraged by her father, who was a former cricketer. Smriti’s brother also played the game, and their shared love for cricket led her to pursue it seriously. Mandhana honed her skills at the academy level, eventually making her debut for Maharashtra in domestic competitions.
Her breakthrough came when she made her debut for the Indian women’s cricket team in 2013 during the Women’s T20I series against Bangladesh. At just 17 years old, Smriti showcased her immense potential. Her aggressive playing style and her ability to score runs consistently soon earned her a permanent spot in the national squad.
International Success
Mandhana’s international career really took off in 2017 when she scored a blistering century against the West Indies in a Women’s World Cup match, which was a turning point for her. She was quickly recognized for her stylish stroke play and ability to perform under pressure. Her century was one of the standout performances in the 2017 Women’s Cricket World Cup, where India reached the final.
In 2018, Mandhana was named the ICC Women’s Cricketer of the Year, solidifying her status as one of the finest players in women’s cricket. Her consistency in all formats of the game—ODIs, T20s, and Tests—has made her one of the most reliable openers for the Indian team.
Playing Style
Mandhana is renowned for her aggressive approach to batting. She has the rare ability to play both conventional and innovative shots with equal grace. Her trademark cover drive, quick footwork, and timing make her a treat to watch. As a left-handed batter, she brings variety to the Indian batting line-up and has excelled in pressure situations. Mandhana’s confidence in going for big shots without compromising on timing has made her a key player in the Indian squad.
Achievements
Smriti Mandhana’s achievements go beyond just her performances on the field. She is among the few women cricketers to have earned a lucrative contract in the Indian Premier League (IPL) through the Women’s IPL, where she plays for the Mumbai Indians. She has also been named the captain of the Indian women’s team in various formats, further proving her leadership qualities.
Mandhana’s journey in international cricket has been marked by several milestones:
- She was the highest run-scorer for India in the 2020 T20 World Cup.
- She has scored two centuries in Women’s ODIs and many half-centuries.
- She became the first woman to score a century in a Women’s Test match against England in 2021.
Her rise to prominence has contributed significantly to the visibility of women’s cricket in India, inspiring many young girls to take up the sport.
Off the Field
Apart from her cricketing career, Smriti is known for her charming personality and her commitment to various social causes. She often uses her platform to encourage young talent, especially girls, to pursue sports and break societal barriers. Smriti is also a vocal advocate for women’s rights and gender equality, making her a role model not just on the field but off it as well.
Conclusion
Smriti Mandhana’s story is one of hard work, perseverance, and talent. Her rise in Indian women’s cricket is a testament to the changing landscape of women’s sports in India. With her blend of grace and power, Mandhana continues to lead from the front, breaking records and inspiring the next generation of cricketers. As her career progresses, she is expected to achieve even more milestones, cementing her place as one of the best players in women’s cricket history.