Smriti Mandhana Shares Thoughts on Staying Focused in the Moment
Indian cricket sensation Smriti Mandhana recently shared insights into her preparations for the upcoming 2025 ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup during an appearance on the Cricket Predicta Show. The tournament will kick off on September 30 in Bengaluru, where the host nation, India, will take on Sri Lanka. In addition to her cricketing commitments, Mandhana announced the launch of her new cricket academy in Dubai, aiming to nurture young talent in the sport.
World Cup Preparation Insights
During her interview, Mandhana emphasized the importance of a focused and measured approach as the Indian team gears up for the World Cup. She expressed her belief in concentrating on daily processes rather than getting ahead of themselves. “I have always been a big believer in not thinking too far ahead. We have to focus on the process, do every day right—and that is the aim,” she stated. This mindset reflects the team’s broader philosophy, as Mandhana noted that everyone is calm and determined as they embark on this journey. With five to six months of preparation ahead, she urged the team to concentrate on executing their plans effectively.
Mandhana also highlighted the significance of maintaining a composed and focused mentality, stating, “Cricket is such a game—you do your things right, things fall in place. Let us just try and do that well.” This approach aims to foster consistency and resilience, crucial elements for the team’s success in the prestigious tournament.
Launch of the City Cricket Academy
In an exciting development outside her playing career, Mandhana has established the City Cricket Academy in Dubai, collaborating with UK-based coach Don Bhagawati. This new academy aims to enhance the skills of budding cricketers while instilling joy, purpose, and values in their training. Reflecting on her partnership with Bhagawati, Mandhana recounted her initial apprehensions about working with him. “When I first heard his name, I was scared. I wondered, who is this ‘Don’?” she admitted. However, as their relationship grew, she found comfort and support, stating that Don and his family have become like family to her in England.
The academy’s mission is to create a nurturing environment for young talents, allowing them to flourish under Bhagawati’s guidance while Mandhana focuses more on her cricketing career. This venture illustrates her commitment to the sport and her desire to give back to the cricketing community.
Smriti Mandhana’s Impressive Career Statistics
Mandhana’s cricketing credentials are impressive, boasting over 9,000 international runs and more than 1,000 boundaries. Her performance statistics reveal her consistency across formats. In Test cricket, she has amassed 629 runs from 7 matches, averaging an impressive 57.18, which includes two centuries and three fifties. Her One Day International (ODI) record showcases her prowess further, with 4,501 runs in 103 matches, an average of 46.4, and a strike rate of 87.93, featuring 11 centuries and 31 fifties.
In the T20 internationals, Mandhana has scored 3,982 runs in 153 matches, maintaining an average of 29.94 and a strike rate of 123.98, with one century and 31 fifties to her name. Her World Cup contributions are equally noteworthy, as she has scored 559 runs in 16 matches at an average of 37.26, including two centuries and three fifties, with her highest score being 123. Historically, India has finished as runners-up in the Women’s Cricket World Cup in 2005 and 2017, and the team is eager to improve upon that record in the upcoming tournament.
Looking Ahead to the 2025 ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup
As the 2025 ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup approaches, there is a palpable sense of excitement and anticipation surrounding the Indian women’s cricket team. With Smriti Mandhana leading the charge, the team appears well-prepared and focused on their goals. The combination of Mandhana’s experience, her impressive statistics, and her newly launched academy could play a crucial role in shaping the future of women’s cricket in India.
The tournament opener against Sri Lanka will set the tone for India’s campaign. Fans and analysts alike are keen to see how the team will perform under pressure, particularly with Mandhana’s leadership and strategic mindset guiding them. The road ahead is long, but with a solid foundation of preparation and teamwork, India’s aspirations for a World Cup title remain firmly in sight.
Observer Voice is the one stop site for National, International news, Sports, Editor’s Choice, Art/culture contents, Quotes and much more. We also cover historical contents. Historical contents includes World History, Indian History, and what happened today. The website also covers Entertainment across the India and World.
Follow Us on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, & LinkedIn
