Smriti Mandhana has made us and the whole country proud, says her mother

India Women are doing the nation proud in England. With two thumping wins in the ongoing ICC Women’s World Cup 2017, the women in blue have certainly served a case for themselves to be one of the favorites. Among the many key architects of their supreme form is young opener Smriti Mandhana. Mandhana missed out on her century in the first game against England.

But she more than just covered up for it with a sparkling ton against Windies Women in the second game. The fans are loving her game and so are her family members. In a conversation with the Kashmir Times, Smita Mandhana, the mother of Smriti Mandhana, expressed her happiness over the way Smriti has been playing. It is worth noting that the Mandhana had injured herself during the WBBL this year.

It had subsequently sidelined her from the World Cup Qualifiers. Coming into the tournament, she arrived with an injury layoff. Smita noted that they were really worried for her in the lead up to the World Cup. When she hurt herself again in the game against England, their worries intensified.

“It was a big match for her as she was playing after a gap of 4 1/2 months. We were more worried as how she would perform after the knee surgery in Australia (by Dr. David Young). We became little tensed when she was again injured during the fielding but we spoke to her after the match and were relieved to learn that it is not a serious injury and hopefully, she will be able to participate in the World Cup,” quoted Smita.

Not disappointed with the 90s

When asked if they were disappointed when she got out in the nineties in the first game, Smriti’s mother remarked that they were happy with the way she batted. She also revealed that ‘special bat’ of Rahul Dravid gives Smriti Mandhana the inspiration to play well.

“We are not disappointed on her being out in nineties but she has made us and the whole country proud by playing so well in the match. The credit goes to her dedication and support from all of us,” she quoted.

“Team India’s former captain Rahul Dravid had given one of his favourite bats to my son, Shravan, also a cricketer (in Maharashtra), who presented this bat to his sister Smriti. The bat is kept proudly in her showcase and we are very thankful to Rahul Dravid for inspiring our children”, she added.

Words from the coach

Meanwhile, her childhood coach, Anant Tambvekar remarked that Smriti is a very disciplined character. She attends her sessions regularly and gives her full dedication. He hopes to see her continue batting with the same good form as she did in the first couple of games.

“Smriti still practices 6-7 hours daily and attends net sessions with dedication. This was her very first big match after the injury in BBL (Big Bash League) in Australia. We hope she continues her good form and brings glory to the nation,” quoted Anant Tambvekar.