Smriti Mandhana features alongside Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo and Carlos Alcaraz on elite list

Smriti Mandhana features alongside Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo and Carlos Alcaraz on elite list

Smriti Mandhana Recognized as One of TIME Magazine’s 100 Most Influential People in Sports

Indian women’s vice-captain, Smriti Mandhana, has achieved another historic milestone in her career by being named in TIME magazine’s prestigious list of the 100 Most Influential People in Sports for 2026. Mandhana’s inclusion in this esteemed list showcases her growing influence on the global stage and her significant contributions to women’s cricket.

Unprecedented Achievements in Cricket

TIME magazine highlighted several key achievements of Smriti Mandhana that have solidified her position as one of the most influential figures in the world of sports. The left-handed batter recently made history by becoming the first Indian woman to score a double century in a domestic one-day match. Additionally, Mandhana holds the distinction of being the first Indian cricketer to score centuries in all three international formats.

With 17 international hundreds to her name, Mandhana currently shares the record for the most centuries in women’s international cricket. In 2024, she set the record for the most international runs scored by a woman in a calendar year, a feat she surpassed in 2025, highlighting her consistent excellence at the highest level of the sport.

Team Success and Major Titles

While Mandhana has achieved numerous individual milestones, TIME magazine emphasized her strong focus on team success. The publication noted that Mandhana takes greater pride in winning major trophies with her teammates than in her personal records. She captained the Royal Challengers Bangalore to the Women’s Premier League titles in 2024 and 2026 and served as vice-captain for India’s triumph at the ICC Women’s World Cup, where she was the second-highest run-scorer in the tournament.

Continuing to play a pivotal role for both the India women’s team and Royal Challengers Bangalore, Mandhana’s leadership and performance on the field have earned her widespread acclaim and respect within the cricketing community.

Global Recognition Among Sporting Icons

Smriti Mandhana’s inclusion in TIME magazine’s list places her alongside several global sporting icons, further solidifying her status as one of the biggest names in women’s cricket and a leading figure in Indian sport. South Africa captain, Temba Bavuma, who led his team to a historic ICC World Test Championship title in 2025, also features on the list.

With prominent names like Jalen Brunson and Gianni Infantino also included, Mandhana’s recognition underscores her growing impact beyond the realm of cricket and positions her as one of the foremost ambassadors of the India women’s cricket team on the international stage.

Overall, Smriti Mandhana’s presence on TIME magazine’s 100 Most Influential People in Sports list for 2026 further cements her legacy as a trailblazer in women’s cricket and a role model for aspiring athletes worldwide.

Impact on Women’s Cricket

Smriti Mandhana’s recognition as one of TIME magazine’s 100 Most Influential People in Sports is not only a personal achievement but also a significant milestone for women’s cricket globally. Her success and visibility are inspiring a new generation of young girls to take up the sport and pursue their dreams of playing at the highest level. Mandhana’s rise to prominence has helped elevate the profile of women’s cricket in India and beyond, drawing attention to the talent and skill present in the women’s game.

As a role model for aspiring cricketers, Mandhana’s dedication to the sport, work ethic, and commitment to excellence serve as a testament to what can be achieved through hard work and perseverance. Her journey from a young girl with a passion for cricket to one of the most influential figures in the sport is a source of inspiration for many, highlighting the potential for success with determination and focus.

Off-field Contributions and Advocacy

Beyond her accomplishments on the cricket field, Smriti Mandhana has also been actively involved in various initiatives to promote women’s sports and empower young girls. She has been vocal about the need for equal opportunities for female athletes and has used her platform to advocate for gender equality in sports. Mandhana’s efforts to support grassroots cricket programs and provide mentorship to aspiring players have had a positive impact on the development of women’s cricket in India.

In addition, Mandhana’s involvement in social causes and charitable work has further endeared her to fans and supporters. Her commitment to giving back to the community and using her influence for good demonstrates her values and integrity as a role model both on and off the field.

Future Outlook and Continued Success

As Smriti Mandhana continues to make her mark on the world of cricket, her inclusion in TIME magazine’s list of influential sports personalities for 2026 underscores her enduring impact and relevance in the sport. With her sights set on achieving even greater milestones and leading her team to further success, Mandhana remains focused on her goals and committed to pushing the boundaries of what is possible in women’s cricket.

Looking ahead, Mandhana’s presence on the global stage will only continue to grow, as she cements her legacy as one of the greatest cricketers of her generation. Her journey serves as a reminder of the power of perseverance, passion, and talent in overcoming obstacles and achieving greatness in the world of sports.

In conclusion, Smriti Mandhana’s recognition as one of TIME magazine’s 100 Most Influential People in Sports is a testament to her exceptional talent, hard work, and dedication to the game of cricket. As she continues to inspire and lead by example, Mandhana’s impact on women’s cricket and the sporting world as a whole will undoubtedly endure for years to come.

Latest News