Overview:
She was the highest run-getter for India in the global tournament.
Smriti Mandhana made her first public appearance after calling off her wedding with Palash Muchhal, taking steps to return to normality. During an event, she opened up about her love for cricket, saying that she depends on her bat and work ethic to gain confidence during challenging times. The 29-year-old also shed light on India’s victory at the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup.
“I am a simple person, and I don’t overthink. If you work hard behind the scenes, you are satisfied. People will always judge based on what you do on the ground, but I judge myself based on the amount of work we do behind the scenes. It feels good to prepare day in and day out. Even if I am feeling good or bad, when I go out to bat, I feel confident,” he said.
The Women in Blue won the ODI World Cup on November 2, beating South Africa in the final at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai.
“I love cricket the most. I get motivated whenever I wear an Indian jersey. You set aside all your problems behind, and that thought helps you focus on life. I was always mad about batting, but no one understood. I always wanted to be called a world champion,” she added.
She opened up about winning the World Cup. “Winning the World Cup trophy was the result of years of hard work. We were waiting for this moment. I have been playing for 12 years, but there have been times when things didn’t go our way. Winning the World Cup was a special moment for us,” she concluded.
Smriti recently confirmed that her wedding to Palash Muchhal has been called off. She requested privacy for both families.
“Over the past few weeks, there has been plenty of speculation around my life, and I feel it is important for me to speak out at this time. I am a very private person, and I would like to keep it that way, but I need to clarify that the wedding is called off. I would like to close this matter here and implore all of you to do the same. I request you to please respect the privacy of both families at this time and allow us the space to process and move on at our own pace,” she wrote.
She finished by talking about her commitment to cricket.
“I believe there is a higher purpose driving us all, and for me, that has always been representing my country at the highest level. I hope to continue to play and win trophies for India for as long as possible, and that is where my focus will forever be. Thank you for all your support. It’s time to move forward.”