Smriti Mandhana wins Best International Women’s Cricketer at BCCI Naman Awards 2025

Indian opener Smriti Mandhana was honored with the Best International Women’s Cricketer award at the BCCI Awards 2025 on Sunday, marking her third win in this category. Having previously claimed the title in the 2020-21 and 2021-22 seasons, Mandhana continued to shine on the international stage with a stellar year, particularly in ODIs.

The 28-year-old left-hander had an outstanding 2024, amassing 747 runs in 13 innings at an impressive average of 57.86. Her aggressive approach at the top of the order was evident in her strike rate of 95.15, as she struck 95 fours and six sixes throughout the year. Notably, she set a new record in women’s cricket by scoring four ODI centuries in a calendar year.

Mandhana’s ability to perform against top teams set her apart, as she delivered match-winning knocks in high-pressure situations. She started the year with back-to-back centuries against South Africa in June, leading India to a 3-0 series sweep. In October, she played a crucial role in a series decider against New Zealand, scoring a defining century. She ended the year with another remarkable century in Perth against Australia, proving her class despite India falling short in the match.

Her performances did not go unnoticed, as she was also named the ICC Women’s ODI Cricketer of the Year. Her consistency ensured that she finished 2024 as the highest run-scorer in the ICC Women’s Championship, strengthening India’s position in the qualification race for the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025.

Meanwhile, on the men’s side, Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah was awarded the Best International Men’s Cricketer at the BCCI Awards 2025 for his exceptional contributions across formats. With Mandhana and Bumrah leading India’s cricketing achievements, the awards ceremony highlighted the country’s dominance on the global stage.