Indian cricketer Smriti Mandhana was named in the first Barbie Dream Team and became the first cricketer in the world to receive a unique Barbie doll inspired by her journey. The announcement took place on Thursday, March 5.Toy maker Mattel aligned the recognition with International Women’s Day, which is celebrated annually on March 8. According to the company, the goal of the initiative is to recognize women who have overcome barriers in their fields. The doll modeled after Mandhana has been specially designed to celebrate her achievements and will not be available for retail sale.Mandhana performs in Dream Team alongside several important world personalities. The list includes tennis great Serena Williams, astronaut Kellie Gerardi, racing driver Regina Sirvent Alvarado, England soccer player Chloe Kelly, singer Helene Fischer, mountaineer Zoja Skubis and surfer Stephanie Gilmore.“The dream is real and we have the team to make it happen,” Mattel said in a statement unveiling the initiative. “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.”Mandhana later shared pictures of her personalized Barbie doll on Instagram and admitted that the moment still feels surreal.“I’m still processing this moment… Seeing a unique @Barbie doll inspired by my journey is something I never imagined growing up. Cricket has given me so much and if my story helps even one girl believe she belongs on the field, it means everything. I’m honored to be part of Barbie’s Dream Team alongside incredible women from around the world who are breaking barriers in their dreams that told men.”Mandhana currently serves as India’s vice-captain across formats and is widely regarded as one of the most reliable batsmen. She recently climbed back to the No. 1 position in the ICC ODI batting rankings. She also led Royal Challengers Bengaluru to their second Women’s Premier League title earlier this year. At the peak of her career, Mandhana continues to shine on and off the field.
