Smriti Mandhana: The Star of Indian Women’s Cricket

Introduction

Smriti Shriniwas Mandhana is a name synonymous with grace, power, and consistency in women’s cricket. Known for her explosive batting and elegance at the crease, Smriti has carved a niche for herself on the international stage. This article dives deep into Smriti Mandhana's life, her inspiring journey in cricket, and her family's role in shaping her illustrious career.

Early Life and Family Background

Roots in a Cricketing Family

Born on July 18, 1996, in Mumbai, Smriti Mandhana comes from a cricket-loving family. Her father, Shrinivas Mandhana, was a district-level cricketer who played for Sangli, Maharashtra. Her mother, Smita Mandhana, is a homemaker who has been a pillar of support for Smriti throughout her journey.

Smriti’s elder brother, Shravan Mandhana, also pursued cricket at the district level. Watching her brother play in the Under-16 tournaments for Maharashtra inspired Smriti to take up the sport. Her family quickly recognized her talent and made significant efforts to nurture her interest in cricket.

A Move to Madhavnagar

At the age of two, Smriti’s family moved to Madhavnagar, a small town in Maharashtra. This environment, combined with her family’s dedication to the sport, laid the foundation for her cricketing aspirations. Smriti’s father managed her cricketing schedules, while her brother often bowled to her during practice sessions.

The Rise of a Star: Domestic Career

Making History with a Double Century

Smriti’s domestic career began with a bang. At the age of 17, in October 2013, she became the first Indian woman to score a double century in a one-day game. Playing for Maharashtra in the West Zone Under-19 tournament, she smashed an unbeaten 224 runs off 150 balls, a performance that brought her into the national spotlight.

Consistent Performances in Domestic Leagues

Smriti continued to impress in domestic cricket, showing remarkable skill and temperament. Her strong performances earned her a spot in India’s national team, where she became a key figure in their batting lineup.

International Career: A Journey of Records and Achievements

Debut and Early Years

Smriti Mandhana made her T20I debut against Bangladesh in April 2013, followed by her ODI debut in August 2014. Her Test debut came soon after, in August 2014, against England. Smriti’s elegant batting and ability to score freely across formats made her one of India’s most reliable players.

Key Milestones

1. ICC Women’s World Cup 2017: Smriti played a pivotal role, scoring two brilliant knocks (90 and 106*) in the group stages. She was instrumental in India reaching the final.

2. Historic Double in ODIs: Smriti has over 4,000 ODI runs at an average of 45.26, including nine centuries and 30 half-centuries as of January 2025.

3. T20 Dominance: She holds the record for the fastest Indian woman to score 2,000 runs in T20Is, a testament to her adaptability in the shortest format.

4. Global Leagues: Smriti has featured in major leagues like the Women's Big Bash League (WBBL) in Australia and The Hundred in England, showcasing her skills on the global stage.

Achievements and Awards

Major Honors

• ICC Women’s Cricketer of the Year: Smriti has been named the ICC Women’s Cricketer of the Year multiple times, cementing her place among the best in the world.
• Wisden Leading Cricketer: Recognized as one of the finest batters in the women’s game, she has featured in Wisden’s list of leading cricketers.
• National Awards: Smriti was conferred the Arjuna Award for her outstanding contributions to Indian cricket.

Off the Field: The Person Behind the Cricketer

Family’s Role

Smriti’s family remains a cornerstone of her success. Her father continues to manage her schedule, while her mother oversees her diet and fitness. Her brother remains her practice partner, contributing to her preparations for big matches.

Humble and Grounded

Despite her success, Smriti is known for her humble nature and commitment to promoting women’s cricket. She often credits her family and teammates for her achievements.

Recent Records and Milestones

1. Most International Runs in 2024: Smriti reclaimed the record for the most international runs by a woman in a calendar year, scoring an astonishing 1,602 runs.

2. Calendar Year T20 Runs: In 2024, she scored 763 runs in T20Is, the most by any woman cricketer in a single year.

3. Fastest Century: Smriti scored the fastest century by an Indian woman in ODIs during a match against Ireland in 2025.

Inspiration for the Next Generation

Smriti Mandhana’s journey from a small-town girl to an international cricketing icon is an inspiration to millions. Her dedication, combined with her family’s unwavering support, highlights the importance of hard work and determination.

Smriti is not just a cricketer; she is a role model for young girls aspiring to break barriers and achieve their dreams.

Conclusion

Smriti Mandhana stands tall as one of the most accomplished players in women’s cricket. Her remarkable journey, from domestic cricket to dominating international arenas, is a testament to her talent, hard work, and passion for the game. As she continues to break records and achieve new milestones, Smriti remains an enduring symbol of excellence in Indian sports.