From a nine-year-old enthused about the
sport to becoming one of India’s most celebrated cricketers, Smriti Mandhana’s
story is an inspiration. In the May 2024 edition of Femina, Smriti candidly
reflects on the challenges she has faced, her unwavering dedication to the
sport, and the dreams that continue to drive her forward. In the Cover Story,
the sportsperson fondly recalls the day she was able to fulfill her promise to
buy a house for her family, expressing gratitude that her beloved sport,
cricket, made it possible. Despite her incredible success, she comes across as
grounded and focused. Whether hitting a century or walking out for zero, she is
known to maintain a stoic demeanour, though the last few years have taught her
to be empathetic towards the young team members she leads and mentors.
Reflecting on her passion for cricket,
Smriti shares, “I think I’ve always loved cricket, (and) like any other kid, I
loved batting more than (the rest of) the game. I understood later, of course,
that there is a lot more to cricket than just batting but, as a kid, I would
just hit a hanging ball or play gully cricket.”
Speaking about her family, she reveals,
“We come from a very humble background. Today, when I see my parents happy and
the life that they’re living, I feel happy about everything that has come with
cricket.”
She adds that she has gleaned life lessons
from the game: “The best part about cricket is that it is a great leveller; you
always start from zero. Whether you score a hundred or you have a bad match
today, tomorrow you just start from the bottom again. Take that lesson to every
aspect of life and you will know what to do next.”
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