Smriti Mandhana is an Indian International cricketer who made history and etched her name in cricket history when she became the first Indian woman to score a century in all three international formats – Test, ODI, and T20I, and after winning the coveted ICC Women’s Cricketer of the Year award twice. She was born on July 18, 1996, and is the youngest captain of the Indian cricket team. She is currently considered to be one of the best batters in women’s cricket. Her playing style is aggressive, and she has made a combined total of 9,500 international runs and has multiple records to her name.
These are some of the lesser-known, intriguing facts about Smriti Mandhana:
Early Inspiration to become a cricketer
Smriti Mandhana got her inspiration to become a cricketer from her family. Her father and her brother were both behind the initiation of her love for cricket, which started early on. She used to accompany her brother to his practice sessions, and her father always encouraged her in her sports endeavours. She used to collect newspaper clippings of her brother’s cricket achievements.
Owner of a Sports Cafe
Smriti Mandhana is the owner of SM18 Cafe, which is a sports cafe located in Sangli, Maharashtra, which is her hometown. Her cafe is a result of her passion for cricket and her dream to create a culinary experience that is centered around community.
Brand Endorsements
Smriti has multiple brand endorsements, and she is frequently seen endorsing sports gear, consumer brands, and other lifestyle-related products. She is one of the most marketable female cricketers in India.
Becoming the Highest-bid players in the WPL auction history
She became the highest-bid player at the inaugural Women’s Premier League auction when Royal Challengers Bangalore put out a bid for Rs. 3.4 crore. In 2024, she led RCB to its first WPL title.
Favorite cricketer
Sachin Tendulkar is one of her favorite cricketers, and she grew up idolizing him. She looked up to him due to his style and approach towards the sport.
Go-to cheat meal
Smriti’s go-to cheat meal is street food, and she enjoys occasionally treating herself to meethi bhel.
Family home in Sangli
Smriti is known for maintaining strong ties with her family roots, and has her family home in Sangli, Maharashtra, and despite her professional commitments, makes time to stay connected to her hometown.
