Indian women’s cricket star Smriti Mandhana has achieved another major milestone in her career, becoming the only Indian athlete to feature in TIME magazine’s inaugural list of the 100 Most Influential People in Sports. The recognition places the Indian vice-captain alongside some of the biggest names in global sport and highlights her growing impact both on and off the cricket field.
TIME’s prestigious list celebrates athletes, leaders, investors and changemakers who are shaping the future of sports across the world. Mandhana’s inclusion reflects not only her remarkable performances for India but also her role in driving the growth and popularity of women’s cricket globally.
At 29, Mandhana has established herself as one of the most accomplished players in the women’s game. The elegant left-handed opener has been a key figure in India’s batting line-up for nearly a decade, earning a reputation for consistency, flair and leadership. Her performances across formats have helped India compete at the highest level while inspiring a new generation of young cricketers.
The recognition comes after a stellar run in international cricket. Mandhana has accumulated thousands of runs for India and remains one of the most successful batters in women’s cricket. She has won multiple ICC awards during her career and continues to be among the sport’s most recognizable faces worldwide.
However, TIME’s acknowledgement goes beyond statistics and records. Mandhana has emerged as a symbol of the rapid rise of women’s cricket in India. Over the past few years, the women’s game has witnessed unprecedented growth in terms of viewership, sponsorship and fan engagement. As one of its biggest stars, Mandhana has played a crucial role in attracting attention to the sport and proving that women’s cricket can command a massive audience.
Her influence extends beyond the boundary ropes. Through her professionalism, humility and consistent performances, Mandhana has become a role model for aspiring athletes. Young girls across India increasingly see her as proof that cricket can be a viable and successful career path. Her success has helped challenge stereotypes and create greater opportunities for women in sport.
The honour is also significant for Indian sport as a whole. Being the sole Indian representative on the list underscores Mandhana’s international standing and the impact she has made globally. It reflects how women athletes are increasingly becoming powerful ambassadors for their countries and their sports.
For Indian cricket, Mandhana’s inclusion is another moment of pride in a period when the women’s game is reaching new heights. Her journey from a talented youngster in Maharashtra to one of the world’s most influential sporting personalities serves as an inspiration for countless aspiring cricketers.
As women’s cricket continues to expand worldwide, Mandhana’s influence is expected to grow even further. Her latest recognition from TIME is not just a celebration of her achievements on the field but also of her contribution to transforming women’s cricket into a truly global phenomenon.
For millions of fans, Smriti Mandhana’s place on the TIME list is a reminder that her impact extends far beyond the scoreboard, making her one of the defining sporting figures of her generation.
