In the fast-paced world of cricket, one name has been making waves and capturing the hearts of fans worldwide – Smriti Mandhana. At the age of 27, this talented Indian cricketer has become a force to be reckoned with, both on the national stage and in international tournaments.
Hailing from Mumbai, Smriti’s journey into cricket was heavily influenced by her family, where both her father and brother were district-level cricketers. In 2013, she etched her name in history by becoming the first Indian woman to score a double hundred in a one-day game for Maharashtra. This breakthrough marked the beginning of a remarkable career that would see her rise to prominence in the cricketing world.
Mandhana’s stellar performances have earned her numerous accolades, including being named the Best Women’s International Cricketer by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) in June 2018. Her excellence on the field was further recognized with the prestigious Rachael Heyhoe Flint Award for the Best Female Cricketer of the Year in December 2018.
Her contributions extend beyond the national team, as she has showcased her skills playing for the Royal Challengers Bangalore in the Women’s Premier League (WPL) and representing the Maharashtra cricket team domestically. Notable achievements include scoring the fastest fifty for India in women’s T20s, achieved in just 23 balls, and leading the Trailblazers to victory in the Women’s T20 Challenge in 2020.
In a candid Q&A session, Mandhana shared some personal details that fans have been curious about. Standing at an impressive five feet, seven and a half inches, or possibly five feet eight inches, she admitted to not checking her height recently. She revealed her father’s affectionate nickname for her – “Bebu” – a charming moniker stemming from the days when saying “Smriti” proved to be a tongue twister during her childhood.
Mandhana showcased her linguistic versatility, mentioning her proficiency in Hindi, Marathi, and a bit of Marwadi, reflecting her diverse cultural background.
When it comes to cricket, Mandhana has a penchant for the front foot cover drive, considering it her most favorite shot. As for movies, she expressed her admiration for Hrithik Roshan and cited “Kaho Na Pyar Hai” and “3 Idiots” as films she enjoys watching repeatedly.
In the realm of cricketing idols, Mandhana looked up to left-handed batter Kumar Sangakkara, especially admiring his cover drive. However, the influence of the legendary Sachin Tendulkar on her cricketing journey is undeniable, having grown up watching the maestro in action.
As Smriti Mandhana continues to dazzle cricket enthusiasts with her skills, both on and off the field, the future looks promising for this cricketing sensation. Whether representing her country or playing for her teams in various leagues, Smriti’s journey is a testament to her dedication, talent, and the love for the game. As fans eagerly await her next innings in the blues, it’s clear that Smriti Mandhana has become a symbol of inspiration for aspiring cricketers and a source of pride for cricket lovers not only in India but also across the globe.
(Quotes sourced from SGTV)