Age
28
Player Skill
Batter
Batting Style
Left Handed
Bowling Style
Right-arm medium
Test Ranking: N/A
Smriti Mandhana
Smriti Mandhana, born on July 18, 1996, in Mumbai, Maharashtra, India, is a trailblazer in women’s cricket. From a young age, Smriti was inspired by cricket through her family, with strong encouragement to pursue the sport. Her journey began in Sangli, where she moved with her family and honed her skills, showcasing immense potential from the outset.
Domestic and International Debut
Smriti’s talent was undeniable, leading to her selection for the Maharashtra under-15 team at just nine years old. By age 11, she was representing the state’s under-19 team. Her consistent performances in domestic cricket paved the way for her international debut in 2013 against Bangladesh in an ODI match.
Rise to Prominence
Smriti Mandhana quickly became one of India’s most dependable batters. Known for her elegant left-handed batting style and aggressive play, she has been a key figure in India’s top order. One of her career-defining moments came at the 2017 ICC Women’s World Cup, where she delivered impressive performances, contributing significantly to India’s journey to the finals.
Key Achievements
- 2018 ICC Women’s Player of the Year: Smriti’s outstanding performances earned her the Rachael Heyhoe Flint Award for the ICC Women’s Cricketer of the Year and the ICC Women’s ODI Player of the Year.
- First Indian Woman in Kia Super League: Smriti became the first Indian cricketer to be signed for England’s Kia Super League, representing Western Storm and finishing as one of the top scorers.
- T20 Leagues: Apart from the Kia Super League, Smriti has played in several other prestigious T20 leagues, including the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) and The Hundred, showcasing her talent on an international level.
Playing Style
Smriti Mandhana is renowned for her graceful stroke play and strong technique. She has a knack for playing long innings, whether in ODIs or T20Is, with particular strength in timing and placement. Her on-field aggression and ability to adapt to different formats make her a crucial asset for any team she plays for.
Off the Field
Beyond cricket, Smriti Mandhana is known for her humility and dedication to promoting women’s cricket. She is a role model for aspiring athletes and actively participates in initiatives to inspire young girls to play cricket.
Future Prospects
As one of the most successful Indian women cricketers, Smriti Mandhana continues to set high standards and break new ground in the sport. With her youth, talent, and unwavering determination, she is poised to reach even greater heights and further solidify her legacy in cricket.
