India’s​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ shining opener Smriti Mandhana revealed her heartfelt tie with the game of cricket and even went on to say that it is the sport which has been her greatest source of power and consistency. While addressing to media the first time after the breakup of her wedding with music composer Palash Muchhal, Mandhana opened up about how cricket is her lifeline that helps her to sail through the storms in her personal and professional life.

At the Amazon Smbhav Summit on Wednesday, the 28-year-old batter reminisced about her 12-year long journey in international cricket—a journey that has had the highs and lows as well as the steadfastness of her ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌faith.

“I Don’t Think I Love Anything More Than Cricket”

Mandira Bedi asked Mandhana how she keeps her focus intact when life off the field becomes overwhelming. Her response was heartfelt:

“I don’t think I love anything more than cricket… Wearing that Indian jersey is the motivation that drives us. You keep all your problems aside, and that thought alone helps you focus on life.”

These words come at a time when Mandhana has faced intense public scrutiny following the sudden calling off of her wedding. Her statement offered a rare glimpse into the mental resilience that defines elite athletes.

A Journey of 12 Years – “Challenging and Fulfilling”

Mandhana reflected on completing 12 years in international cricket – a milestone she describes as both demanding and deeply rewarding.

Over the years, she has grown into one of the most recognizable faces of Indian women’s cricket, inspiring millions through her performances and calm leadership.

World Cup Triumph: “Reward for the Battles We Fought”

Looking back at India’s historic World Cup win, Mandhana said the victory felt like the culmination of years of perseverance, heartbreak, and unwavering belief.

“This World Cup was the reward for the battle we fought over the years… We visualised it before the final, and when we finally saw it on the screen, it gave us goosebumps.”

She also shared how the presence of legends Mithali Raj and Jhulan Goswami at the final made the moment even more emotional.

“We really wanted to do it for them. Seeing tears in their eyes made it feel like women’s cricket itself was winning. It was a battle won for all of them.”

A Childhood Dream Fulfilled

Mandhana fondly recalled that even as a child, her ambition had been singular and bold – to become a world champion.

“As a kid, the madness for batting was always there. In my mind, I always wanted to be called a world champion.”

Her journey – from a young girl obsessed with batting to one of India’s finest cricketers – stands testimony to her passion and hard work.

Lessons From the World Cup

Mandhana said the World Cup campaign reinforced two important truths for the team:

“You always start an innings at zero, no matter if you scored a hundred before.”

“And don’t play for yourself – that’s what we kept reminding each other.”

These principles, she said, were the foundation of India’s championship mindset.

Focused​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ on the Game, Moving Forward

It is true that Mandhana chose not to talk about her personal life in detail but her words indirectly conveyed one thing very clearly – cricket is the place where she feels comfortable, it gives her a reason and it is her greatest love.

Her bright example will inspire future cricketers, and she will lead India on the international stage. The supporters and fellow players will, therefore, take comfort in her return to the game and in her strong pledge to the ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌sport.

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