Smriti Mandhana has been named Indian Sportswoman of the Year for 2025 at the BBC Indian Sportswoman of the Year Awards, following a stellar season in which she played a decisive role in India’s historic Women’s World Cup triumph and led Royal Challengers Bengaluru to their second Women’s Premier League (WPL) title.
The 29-year-old opener was honoured at a ceremony in New Delhi on 16 February 2026, where she was chosen by an eminent jury over a strong field of contenders including Harmanpreet Kaur, Divya Deshmukh, Suruchi Singh and Jyothi Yarraji.
BBC officials praised Mandhana’s “consistency, leadership and grace under pressure”, while Indian cricket administrators said her performances have significantly advanced the profile of women’s cricket. In a video message from Australia, where she is currently touring with the national team, Mandhana described 2025 as “a special year for women’s cricket” and thanked her teammates and fans for their support.
A Season of Dominance and Decisive Leadership
Mandhana’s 2025 campaign will be remembered as one of the most complete seasons by an Indian cricketer in recent years. As vice-captain of the national side, she was instrumental in India’s first Women’s World Cup title on home soil, delivering crucial runs in high-pressure encounters and setting the tone at the top of the order. Her elegant strokeplay was matched by composure and tactical awareness, often anchoring chases while accelerating when required.
Beyond the international stage, Mandhana’s leadership shone in franchise cricket. Captaining Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the WPL, she guided the team to their second championship, demonstrating sharp game management and the ability to nurture emerging players. Under her stewardship, the side displayed consistency throughout the tournament, combining disciplined bowling performances with assured batting displays.
At the awards ceremony, BBC representatives commended her ability to “combine flair with responsibility”, noting that she embodies the evolving identity of Indian women’s sport confident, competitive and globally respected. Members of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) echoed this sentiment, stating that Mandhana’s achievements reflect the growing depth and professionalism in women’s cricket.
In her acceptance message, Mandhana emphasised teamwork: “Cricket is never about one person. The World Cup win and the WPL title were possible because of collective effort. I’m grateful to be part of this journey.”
Rising Standards in Women’s Sport
The recognition comes at a time when women’s sport in India is experiencing unprecedented visibility and institutional backing. The BBC Indian Sportswoman of the Year Awards have, over the years, highlighted athletes who have pushed boundaries and reshaped public perceptions. Mandhana now joins a distinguished list of winners whose performances have transcended statistics to influence cultural conversations around gender and opportunity.
This year’s ceremony also celebrated excellence across disciplines. Chess prodigy Divya Deshmukh was named Emerging Player of the Year after a breakthrough season that captured national attention. Para-athlete Preethi Pal was honoured for her achievements on the global stage, while former shooter Anjali Bhagwat received the Lifetime Achievement Award for her pioneering contributions. The breadth of recognition underscores how women across sports from cricket and chess to athletics and shooting are commanding both podium finishes and public imagination.
Mandhana’s journey mirrors this broader transformation. Since making her international debut as a teenager, she has steadily evolved into one of the most dependable batters in world cricket. Known for her elegant cover drives and calm demeanour, she has frequently ranked among the top run-scorers in international tournaments. Her ability to adapt across formats Tests, One Day Internationals and T20s has cemented her place as a cornerstone of the Indian batting line-up.
Equally significant is her influence beyond the boundary rope. As one of the most recognisable faces in Indian cricket, Mandhana has attracted sponsorships and media attention that were once rare in women’s sport. Analysts argue that such visibility is vital for sustaining commercial interest in leagues like the WPL and ensuring long-term investment in grassroots programmes.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
Smriti Mandhana’s honour is not merely a celebration of individual brilliance; it is a testament to what sustained opportunity and belief can achieve. Her success story highlights the impact of institutional support, professional leagues and growing public enthusiasm for women’s sport. Yet, for every athlete who reaches the summit, many more continue to struggle for access to training facilities, coaching and financial backing.
Recognition at prestigious platforms such as the BBC awards sends a powerful message: talent thrives when given equal space. Mandhana’s composed leadership and consistent excellence challenge outdated notions about women’s capabilities in competitive sport. More importantly, her journey offers young girls across cities and villages a visible example of what is possible.
