How are Ashwin and Mandhana Supporting the Indian Armed Forces Amid Tensions with Pakistan?

Synopsis
Amid escalating tensions with Pakistan, Ashwin and Mandhana stand with the Indian armed forces, reflecting a powerful unity. Their public support underscores the importance of resilience and national pride during challenging times. Discover how sports figures are rallying behind the military in this critical moment.
Key Takeaways
- Ashwin and Mandhana express support for Indian forces.
- Pakistan's attacks were successfully countered.
- Operation Sindoor targets terrorist infrastructure.
- IPL 2025 season suspended for safety.
- Public figures play a crucial role in national solidarity.
New Delhi, May 10 (NationPress) Former Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin and the vice-captain of the women’s cricket team, Smriti Mandhana, have shown their support for the Indian armed forces as they respond decisively to recent aerial assaults from Pakistan.
On Friday, Pakistan intensified its aerial assaults, employing drones and missiles targeting Indian border cities and various military installations in Jammu & Kashmir, Punjab, Rajasthan, and Gujarat. Fortunately, these attacks were successfully thwarted by India's robust defence mechanisms.
These hostile actions are a reaction to Operation Sindoor, launched by the Indian armed forces against terrorist infrastructures in Pakistan, following a tragic terror incident in Pahalgam last month that resulted in the deaths of 26 individuals, mainly tourists.
On Saturday, Ashwin expressed his sentiments on his X account, stating, “Thoughts with our armed forces. #OperationSindoor.”
Currently participating in the women’s ODI tri-series in Sri Lanka, Smriti also conveyed her support via Instagram, saying, “Saluting the courage, commitment and sacrifice of our Indian Armed Forces. Your strength protects our freedom. We stand with you, always, Vande Mataram.”
Veteran off-spinner Sneh Rana, who is also competing in the tri-series in Sri Lanka, urged citizens to avoid disseminating false information surrounding the cross-border conflicts. She stated, “In these testing times, it's an earnest request from all citizens of India to refrain from spreading fake news and propaganda.”
She further added, “Please be mindful and calm. My heart goes out to the Indian armed forces for fighting valiantly for the safety of their motherland. Jai Hind.”
Due to the heightened tensions, the BCCI has announced a one-week suspension of the IPL 2025 season. As of now, IPL 2025 has seen 58 matches, with 12 remaining in the league stage, followed by playoffs. The unfolding situation will determine when the tournament can safely resume.