How has the team embraced the World Champions feeling? Insights from Mandhana
Synopsis
In a recent interview, India’s vice-captain Smriti Mandhana expressed how the team feels a mix of pride and responsibility as they embrace their world champions status. She also reflects on her individual performance and the team's preparations for the upcoming T20 World Cup.
Key Takeaways
The Indian women's team has embraced their world champion status.
Smriti Mandhana highlights the pride and responsibilities that come with this title.
Mandhana is the first Indian woman to exceed 4,000 T20I runs.
The team plans to focus on T20 cricket ahead of the next World Cup.
Preparation is key for maintaining their successful performance.
Thiruvananthapuram, Dec 26 (NationPress) India’s vice-captain Smriti Mandhana shared that the squad has fully embraced the honor of being named world champions, although she emphasized that this title also carries a significant burden of responsibility. Last month, India achieved a historic victory by winning the 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup in Navi Mumbai, marking their first-ever ICC trophy in senior women’s cricket. “Honestly, it feels incredible to be recognized as world champions. I vividly recall the moment at the World Cup when our team was introduced as champions - it was truly surreal,” she remarked.
“It’s been roughly a month since that triumph, and as a team, we have truly embraced that feeling. However, this pride also comes with responsibilities. It serves as a reminder for us to enhance our preparation and maintain our success, as we will be acknowledged as world champions for the coming years. I hope our marketing team keeps that in our minds too!” Smriti stated during a conversation with broadcasters prior to the third T20I against Sri Lanka in Thiruvananthapuram.
In the current series, Smriti has made history by becoming the first Indian woman cricketer to surpass 4,000 runs in T20Is. While she has not yet secured a fifty in the series, Smriti expressed satisfaction with her performance in 2025. “For me as a batter, it’s essential to keep my approach straightforward: respond to the ball, trust my strengths, and avoid overthinking. If I adhere to this strategy, I know I can make a meaningful contribution to the team,” she added.
“I prefer not to focus too much on myself, but I am pleased with my progress. This format is one I diligently work on every day, and it’s gratifying when that effort results in solid performances,” she concluded.
India is gearing up to pursue another title at the 2026 Women’s T20 World Cup, scheduled to take place in England during June-July, and Smriti mentioned that their primary focus will be on participating in numerous T20Is leading up to this major event.
“We had a considerable amount of ODI cricket in preparation for the World Cup—almost a year’s worth. Yet, we were always aware that the next phase would be heavily focused on T20 cricket, with the T20 World Cup, this series, and the WPL on the horizon.”
Point of View
It is essential to acknowledge the remarkable achievement of the Indian women's cricket team, led by Smriti Mandhana. Their emotional embrace of the world champions title demonstrates not only their talent but also their commitment to excel further. This narrative plays a crucial role in inspiring future generations and promoting women's sports in India.
NationPress
10 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Smriti Mandhana say about being world champions?
Smriti Mandhana expressed that while it feels amazing to be recognized as world champions, it also brings added responsibility to maintain their success.
How has Mandhana performed in the current series?
Smriti Mandhana has become the first Indian woman cricketer to score over 4,000 runs in T20Is, reflecting her consistent performance.
What are India’s plans for the upcoming T20 World Cup?
India plans to play more T20Is leading up to the 2026 Women’s T20 World Cup, focusing on strengthening their cricketing skills.
