Indian cricketer Smriti Mandhana has been named to TIME's list of the 100 most influential people in sports alongside figures like Lionel Messi [3].
This recognition comes as the women's game sees a surge in global visibility. Mandhana's inclusion as the only Indian on the list [3] highlights the growing impact of Indian women's cricket on the international stage.
Mandhana is currently maintaining a high level of performance during the 2026 Women's T20 World Cup. She recently delivered her second consecutive half-century, scoring 50 runs [1]. Her batting contributions have been pivotal to the national team's momentum in the tournament.
In a recent match against the Netherlands, Mandhana's performance put India on course for a total of 200 runs [2]. This aggressive approach has helped establish India as a formidable contender in the competition.
Observers now view Mandhana as a leading face of world cricket due to this combination of on-field success and off-field influence [3]. Her ability to deliver high-impact performances under pressure has elevated her profile beyond the sport's traditional boundaries.
The 2026 tournament serves as a critical platform for the team to refine its strategy. The consistency of the opening batters remains a primary focus for India as they progress toward the later stages of the World Cup.
“The only Indian on TIME's 100 Most Influential People in Sports list”
Mandhana's dual success as a top-tier athlete and a globally recognized influencer signals a shift in the commercial and cultural center of cricket. By bridging the gap between sporting excellence and mainstream global celebrity, she is helping to drive investment and viewership for women's sports in India and beyond.
