Smriti Mandhana's Heartfelt Confession: 'Cricket is My Only Love'
In a world driven by passions and pursuits, Indian cricket star Smriti Mandhana stands as a beacon of unwavering dedication. The World Cup-winning vice-captain recently opened up about the unparalleled love she harbors for cricket, especially in light of her canceled wedding with musician Palash Muchhal.
Cricket: The Love of Her Life
Speaking at the Amazon Smbhav Summit in New Delhi, Mandhana shed light on what truly drives her every day. “I don’t think there is anything I love more than cricket,” she admitted. Mandhana’s journey from debuting internationally in 2013 to securing a historic World Cup win last month holds testimony to her relentless craft.
A Journey of Obsession and Victory
Mandhana’s childhood was marked by a singular obsession: batting. “People around me didn’t really get it, but in my head, I wanted only one thing — to be known as a world champion,” she reflected.
The recent World Cup triumph was more than just a victory; it was the culmination of years of blood, sweat, and tears. “This trophy was the outcome of everything we’ve been fighting for,” she said, acknowledging the emotional weight of hearing her role models Mithali Raj and Jhulan Goswami cheer from the stands.
Learning From Triumphs and Mistakes
The right-handed batting star eloquently shared the pearls of wisdom she gleaned from her cricketing journey. Two principles stood out: “starting from zero — regardless of past scores” and “playing not for oneself, but for the team.” According to Times of India, such lessons are not just game strategies but life lessons.
The Power of Unity in Sports
When the national anthem played, Mandhana, alongside her teammates, felt an overwhelming surge of pride. Their victory wasn’t just for their personal glory; it was a tribute to all the women who paved the path before them. “It was a victory for everyone who came before us,” she declared, a sentiment that goes far beyond the boundaries of any cricket field.
Moving Beyond the Personal
Mandhana’s first public appearance since the announcement of her wedding’s cancellation was impactful. Despite personal challenges, her focus remains unwavering. Her story serves as a poignant reminder that passion can fuel resilience, and for Mandhana, cricket is not just a sport — it’s the love of her life.
In every crease mark and every swing of the bat, Smriti Mandhana’s story reminds us all of the power of dedication and the inspirational force of team spirit.
