Smriti Mandhana named Indian Sportswoman of the Year after stellar 2025 season

Smriti Mandhana’s remarkable run in 2025 has earned her the title of Indian Sportswoman of the Year at the BBC Indian Sportswoman of the Year awards. The Indian opener was recognised following a landmark season in which she played a crucial role in India’s ICC Women’s World Cup victory and helped Royal Challengers Bengaluru clinch their second Women’s Premier League (WPL) crown.

The 29-year-old, who served as India’s vice-captain during the World Cup campaign, was among the team’s standout performers. She amassed 434 runs in the tournament, consistently delivering at the top of the order as India secured the prestigious title.

Mandhana was selected for the honour ahead of a strong field of nominees that included captain Harmanpreet Kaur, rising chess star Divya Deshmukh, shooter Suruchi Singh and hurdler Jyothi Yarraji.

The winner was decided by a distinguished jury comprising tennis great Leander Paes, Paralympic medallist Deepa Malik and long jump legend Anju Bobby George.

The awards evening also celebrated other achievements in Indian sport. Divya Deshmukh was named Emerging Player of the Year after capturing the FIDE Women’s World Cup title at the age of 20. Para-athlete Preethi Pal was honoured as Para-Sportswoman of the Year following her two bronze medals at the Paris 2024 Paralympics. Veteran shooter Anjali Bhagwat received the Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of her contributions to Indian shooting on the global stage.

Mandhana’s award caps a year in which she not only delivered individual brilliance but also played a key role in elevating Indian women’s cricket to new heights.