The Maharashtra Cricket Association (MCA) felicitated India vice-captain Smriti Mandhana with a Rs 50 lakh award. This recognition comes after her key role in India winning the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup 2025. Mandhana scored 434 runs at an average of 54.25, finishing as the tournament’s second-highest run-scorer. Her century against New Zealand in the league stage earned her Player of the Match honours.
Mandhana expressed pride in representing Maharashtra, highlighting the collective effort of the team in achieving the World Cup victory. She thanked MCA President Rohit Pawar and office-bearers for recognising her contribution. She praised MCA’s initiatives for women cricketers, including the Maharashtra Women’s Premier League and the Senior Women’s T20 Trophy victory.
MCA President Rohit Pawar congratulated Mandhana and the Indian Women’s Cricket Team for their achievement. He said her consistent performances and determination played a pivotal role in securing the World Cup. Pawar also acknowledged the BCCI for providing world-class infrastructure and support to both men’s and women’s cricket.
Former MCA President Ajay Shirke and other MCA officials extended their congratulations. The award ceremony highlighted Maharashtra’s commitment to nurturing women cricketers. Earlier, the Maharashtra Senior Women’s Team received Rs 40 lakh for their T20 Trophy win.
