Smriti Mandhana Bags BBC Top Honor as 2025 Marks Golden Year for Women's Cricket

Smriti Mandhana, the Indian star batter has recently become the BBC Indian Sportswoman of the Year 2025 on the back of her contributions in the success of women in cricket. 

The award honors her role as India won the historic Women world cup and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) won the second title of Women premier league (WPL).

When was the Award Announced?

On 16 February 2026 at a ceremony in New Delhi, BBC declared her the winner and her mother Smita picked the award in Mandhana's presence as she continued her tour of Australia. 

The video message reinforces the fact that Mandhana gave the thanks and pointed out 2025 as a year of women and cricket, particularly World Cup.

Key Achievements in 2025

Mandhana was a vice-captain of the 2025 ICC Women's Cricket World Cup winning team who then defeated South Africa by 52 runs in the final, in DY Patil Stadium on November 2, 2025, the first title by India. 

Against New Zealand, she had made her 14th ODI century, tied with Meg Lanning, and previously, was the winner of BCCI Best International Women Cricketer, in recognition of numerous large ODI scores.

Who are Smriti Mandhana’s Competitors?

Mandhana won over four other shortlisted contenders put forward by a BBC panel: captain Harmanpreet Kaur (cricket), chess grandmaster Divya Deshmukh (who won in the Emerging Player category), hurdler Jyothi Yarraji, and shooter Suruchi Singh.

What is the Selection Process for Winners?

The winner among the nominees was selected by a renowned grand jury consisting of tennis legend Leander Paes, para-athlete Deepa Malik and long jumper Anju Bobby George. 

BBC News CEO Jonathan Munro applauded the winners of the honors as they were able to demonstrate the excellence of sport.

Impact on Women's Cricket

Mandhana had a 87 on 41 balls making RCB pursue 204 off Capitals of Delhi in the final of the WPL, and they won their second title after 2024. 

Her success has made Indian women cricket a world famous sport, which has been inspirational to young talents as they grow in popularity.