Smriti Mandhana named BBC Indian Sportswoman of the Year 2025 after historic World Cup win

India’s star cricketer Smriti Mandhana has been named the BBC Indian Sportswoman of the Year 2025. The award comes after her outstanding performance in the ODI World Cup last year, where she played a key role in helping India win the title at home.

Mandhana, who is the vice-captain of the Indian women’s cricket team, was one of the most important players during the World Cup campaign. India defeated South Africa in the final to lift the trophy, marking a historic moment for women’s cricket in the country. It was a proud achievement for the team and a special milestone in Mandhana’s career.

The award was presented at a grand ceremony. Since Mandhana is currently in Australia with the Indian team, she could not attend the event in person. Her mother, Smita Mandhana, accepted the award on her behalf. In a video message, Mandhana thanked the BBC for the honour and said that 2025 was a very special year for women’s cricket.

She said she was happy that she could contribute to India’s success and help the team win important matches. Her calm leadership and consistent batting were widely praised during the tournament.

Key role in World Cup triumph

The 29-year-old left-handed batter has been one of the most reliable players for India over the past few years. In the ODI World Cup, she scored crucial runs at important moments and guided the team with confidence. Her performances in the knockout stages were especially important as India faced strong opponents.

The World Cup victory was described as a historic achievement for the Indian women’s cricket team. It also helped increase the popularity of women’s cricket across the country. Many young girls were inspired by the team’s success and by players like Mandhana.

The award jury included some of India’s sporting legends such as Leander Paes, Deepa Malik, and Anju Bobby George. They felt that Mandhana was the most deserving winner this year because of her impact on the game and her contribution to India’s World Cup victory.

Currently, Mandhana is in Australia with the Indian team. India is playing a full series that includes three T20 Internationals, three One Day Internationals, and one Test match. Even while touring, she continues to focus on her performance and team responsibilities.

Her success shows how women’s sports in India are growing rapidly. With more support, media coverage, and recognition, female athletes are getting the platform they deserve.

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Other winners at the ceremony

The BBC Indian Sportswoman of the Year ceremony also honoured many other athletes for their outstanding performances. Young chess star Divya Deshmukh won the Emerging Player of the Year award. She received this honour after her historic triumph at the FIDE Women’s World Cup at just 20 years of age. Her achievement has made her one of the brightest young talents in Indian chess.

Several other sportspersons were recognised for their achievements. Ekta Bhyan, Deepthi Jeevanji, and Preethi Pal were honoured for their remarkable performances at the World Para Athletics Championship. Their dedication and success have brought pride to the nation.

In team categories, the Indian Women’s Cricket Team was recognised for its historic World Cup victory. The Indian Women’s Cricket Team for the Blind was also honoured for winning their World Cup. The Indian Women’s Kabaddi Team received praise for their impressive World Cup victory as well.

In the Changemakers category, the Indian Women’s Ice Hockey Team was celebrated for promoting a non-traditional sport in India and breaking barriers. Rajbir Kaur and Savita Punia were recognised for their contribution to Indian hockey. Paani Devi was honoured for her work at the grassroots level, helping develop sports in rural areas.

Jonathan Munro, CEO of BBC News, congratulated all the winners and said they represent the very best of sporting excellence. He added that the BBC World Service is proud to share such inspiring stories with audiences in India and across the world.

Smriti Mandhana’s award highlights not just her individual brilliance but also the progress of women’s cricket in India. Her journey from a young cricketer to a World Cup winner and award recipient reflects hard work, discipline, and passion.

As she continues her tour in Australia, fans back home are celebrating her achievement. The honour is a reminder that Indian women athletes are making history in many sports and inspiring the next generation to dream big.