Smriti Mandhana, the accomplished Indian cricketer, recently shared insights into her remarkable journey in cricket, highlighting the challenges she confronted along the way. Speaking candidly, she revealed how societal perceptions initially doubted her path in the sport, citing concerns like, "No one will marry her."
Representing Maharashtra in domestic cricket, Smriti has earned recognition as the 'Best Women's International Cricketer' in the BCCI awards, a testament to her prowess in the game. Her appearance alongside Ishan Kishan on 'Kaun Banega Crorepati 15' shed light on her cricketing roots and upbringing.
On the show, she recounted her family's cricketing legacy, where her father and brother, Shrinivas and Shravan Mandhana, respectively, were involved in cricket at the district-level for Sangli. Smriti expressed that cricket was ingrained in her life from a very early age, recalling how she observed and learned the sport by watching her left-handed brother play, even adopting a left-handed batting style despite being naturally right-handed.
Acknowledging the challenges she faced, particularly the scarcity of girls playing cricket during her early days, Smriti credited her parents for fostering an environment of unwavering support and encouragement. Despite societal taunts aimed at her parents, citing concerns about her complexion impacting marriage prospects, Smriti emphasized how her parents shielded her from these criticisms, granting her the freedom to pursue her passion for cricket.
Amitabh Bachchan, the host, commended her parents' progressive outlook and expressed admiration for their modern perspective regarding gender equality and opportunities in sports. Smriti echoed her gratitude for her parents' unwavering support, highlighting their resilience in enabling her to follow her dreams.
The conversation on the show not only illuminated Smriti Mandhana's perseverance and dedication but also emphasized the significance of parental support and progressive mindsets in empowering individuals to overcome societal obstacles and pursue their passions relentlessly.
(With Agency Inputs)
