Indian cricketer Smriti Mandhana has been named in Mattel’s first-ever Barbie Dream Team and is the first cricketer to receive a one-of-a-kind Barbie doll modeled after her. The announcement was made ahead of International Women’s Day in recognition of her contribution to the growth of women’s cricket.
The limited edition doll was created to specifically honor Mandhana’s achievements in international cricket and her influence as a role model for young athletes.
Recognition before International Women’s Day
According to Mattel, this initiative highlights women who have broken barriers and made extraordinary contributions in their fields. Mandhana represents India in the global Dream Team lineup, which is made up of trailblazing women from different parts of the world.
Celebrating Mandhana’s journey in cricket
Mandhana’s selection is the first ever selection of a female cricketer in the Barbie Dream Team. This custom-made doll was created specifically to commemorate her career in international cricket and the impact she had on and off the field.
Mandhana played a significant role in raising the profile of women’s cricket in India. She also became the first Indian cricketer to register a century in all three international formats – Test, ODI and T20 – achieving a major milestone for the sport.
Barbie shares the announcement on social media
Barbie announced the initiative on her Instagram page; The dream is real and we have the team to make it happen. Ahead of International Women’s Day, Barbie is proud to announce our first Barbie Dream Team, honoring eight women from around the world who have led the way for future generations of girls by achieving breakthrough firsts in their chosen paths:
International Women’s Day 2026: Everything you need to know
International Women’s Day is celebrated annually on March 8 to celebrate the achievements of women in social, economic, cultural and political fields. The day also functioned as a platform to advocate for accelerating the achievement of gender equality.
History of International Women’s Day
The origins of International Women’s Day can be traced back to the 20th century, when labor movements spread across Europe and America. The first Women’s Day in the US was celebrated on February 28, 1909. In 1922, the founder and first head of government of Soviet Russia, Vladimir Lenin, declared March 8 International Women’s Day in honor of women’s role in the Russian Revolution of 1917.
In India, the first celebration dates back to 1914 when a celebration was held in Pune. The day gained significance during the struggle for independence, when women actively participated in movements and protests.
