Smriti Mandhana Makes First Public Appearance After Breakup, Says “Nothing Matters More to Me Than Cricket”

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): Indian women’s cricket team vice-captain Smriti Mandhana appeared publicly for the first time after her wedding was called off. She attended an event in Delhi along with team captain Harmanpreet Kaur. During the interaction, Mandhana said that nothing in her life is more important than cricket. “My job is simple, see the ball and hit the ball,” she said.

Mandhana shared, “I have always been a simple person. I’ve never complicated my life over anything. People often judge us based on what they see on the field, but I don’t believe in that. What we work on behind the camera matters more to me. I may feel good or bad at times, but the preparation we do is what ultimately shows in the results on the field. Over the last two years, we have played cricket with this mindset, and we will continue with the same approach because it has brought us success.”

She added, “There is nothing I love more than cricket. When you step onto the field to represent your country, nothing else is more important. You just want to win matches for India. The moment we wear the Indian jersey, we forget all our problems. You are one among millions who gets the honour of representing the nation, this thought alone is enough to keep your focus on cricket.”

Addressing the issue of multiple on-field suggestions or differing ideas among teammates, Mandhana said, “I don’t see it as a problem. Everyone wants India to win. Each player has their own way of thinking about how to achieve victory. These aren’t arguments, they’re healthy discussions. If we aren’t discussing, it means we don’t have the passion to win for the team.”

Smriti Mandhana’s wedding to singer and music composer Palash Muchhal, scheduled for 23 November, was recently postponed. Both of them announced on social media that they have ended their relationship and are moving forward separately in their personal lives.