Smriti Mandhan’s memorable year in cricket was capped off with another big honor as she was named the Indian Sportswoman of the Year at the BBC Indian Sportswoman of the Year Awards. The Indian opener won recognition after playing a major role in India’s World Cup triumph and leading Royal Challengers Bengaluru to their second WPL title.
Mandhana, 29, was India’s vice-captain during their victorious campaign at the 2025 ICC Women’s World Cup and was one of the stars of the tournament as India marched to the title, amassing 434 runs.
She beat off serious competition for the honour, with Harmanpreet Kaur, chess sensation Divya Deshmukh, marksman Suruchi Singh and hurdler Jyothi Yarraji also in the mix.
A golden year for Mandhana
Despite a tough time in her personal life on the field, Smriti Mandhana has had a triumphant year in women’s cricket. Receiving the award, Mandhana expressed her thoughts on what has been an exceptional year for the Indian women’s cricket team.
“Thank you to the BBC for giving me the Sportswoman of the Year award. 2025 has been a special year for women’s cricket, especially towards the end we had the World Cup and I’m glad I could contribute and help India win matches,” she said.
The lefty has been doing it for a long time. She made her India debut at 16 and has scored 17 international centuries – a record she shares with Australian great Meg Lanning.
And it’s not just about the national scene. Mandhana also lifted two Women’s Premier League titles with Royal Challengers Bengaluru, adding another silverware to an already packed cupboard.
Big names, big winners
The award was chosen by a grand jury that included tennis legend Leander Paes, Paralympic star Deepa Malik and long jump icon Anju Bobby George.
The night also belonged to chess prodigy Divya Deshmukh, who won Rookie of the Year after her stunning triumph at the FIDE Women’s World Cup at just 20 years old.
Preethi Pal was named Para-Sportswoman of the Year for winning two bronze medals in athletics at the Paris 2024 Paralympics, while shooter Anjali Bhagwat received the Lifetime Achievement Award for her pioneering career on the world stage.
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Issued by:
Debodinna Chakraborty
Published on:
February 17, 2026