India’s Vice Captain Smriti Mandhana turns 29 on July 18th. A journey filled with hard work and milestones has led her to lead on multiple occasions, along with being a graceful left-handed batter who paved her path to success and holds multiple records as a batter. Here’s a look back at her journey from her childhood pics to her journey to stardom.
Smriti Mandhana’s Early Cricket Journey
Her cricketing journey began when she watched her brother, Shravan Mandhana, play cricket. That early exposure sparked her love for the game. At just 9 years old, she picked up the bat and by 15, she was representing Maharashtra in the Under-15 category.

This childhood special photo with her brother, who inspired her to take up the sport, holds a special place in her story.

Smriti Mandhana made her international debut for India in a T20I against Bangladesh on April 5, 2013, in Vadodara. Just 16 at the time, she top-scored for India with 36 off 33 balls, helping the team complete a 3-0 clean sweep.

Since then, she has broken several records—including scoring the most centuries by an Indian batter in ODIs—and has won multiple ICC awards, the most by any Indian player.

Smriti Mandhana – ODI Stats
Debut: April 10, 2013 vs Bangladesh
Matches: 88
Runs: 3,390+
Batting Average: 43.5
Strike Rate: 85.0
Hundreds: 5
Fifties: 28
Highest Score: 135
Also Read: Smriti Mandhana attains pole position, becomes number one ranked batter in Women's ODI Ranking
Advertisement
Smriti Mandhana – T20I Stats
Debut: April 5, 2013 vs Bangladesh
Matches: 130+
Runs: 3,150+
Batting Average: 28.7
Strike Rate: 121.0
Fifties: 23
Highest Score: 87
Also Read:Â IND vs ENG: Massive update on Rishabh Pant's injury, India might have to make a tough decision