Mandhana on World Cup win: 'Will take the 45 days of not sleeping every night'

India’s vice-captain Smriti Mandhana reflected emotionally on the team’s historic Women’s World Cup triumph, describing the campaign as one of the most exhausting yet rewarding experiences of her career. Speaking after India’s nail-biting victory in the final, Mandhana admitted that the journey to glory was filled with sleepless nights, relentless pressure, and moments of self-doubt — but ultimately, it was all worth it.

With a beaming smile and visible fatigue after weeks of intense competition, Mandhana said, “It feels surreal. I don’t think I’ve slept properly for the last 45 days. Every night before a game, I kept thinking about what could go wrong, what we could do better, and how to make sure we win. But I’ll gladly take all those sleepless nights for this feeling right now — it’s absolutely worth it.”

Mandhana, who finished as one of the tournament’s leading run-scorers, was instrumental in India’s campaign, combining elegance and aggression at the top of the order. Her crucial knocks against Australia and South Africa, along with her steady hand in pressure chases, defined India’s batting consistency throughout the tournament. Her form and leadership were pivotal in setting the tone for the younger players, especially during the tense knockout stages.

Reflecting on the team’s mindset, Mandhana highlighted how the group’s belief and unity carried them through. “This win wasn’t about just one player,” she said. “It was about everyone believing in each other, even when things got tough. We had so many close games, and every single player contributed — whether it was a small partnership, a diving stop, or a single over under pressure. That’s what makes this team special.”

Mandhana also praised the team’s backroom staff for their meticulous preparation and emotional support. “We went through a lot mentally. There were times when fatigue set in, but our support staff kept us grounded and motivated. They reminded us why we were here — to make history.”

India’s World Cup victory marks a monumental chapter in women’s cricket, with the team overcoming traditional powerhouses to lift the trophy for the first time. The triumph sparked celebrations across the country, and Mandhana’s composure and class have made her a symbol of the team’s transformation into a fearless, modern side.

Reflecting on the emotional toll of the journey, Mandhana concluded, “There were nights I’d replay every shot in my mind, wondering if I could’ve done better. But now, looking at that trophy, I know it was all part of the process. The pressure, the sleepless nights — they all led us here.”

For Indian cricket, Mandhana’s words capture the essence of what this victory means — not just the end of a campaign, but the culmination of years of belief, sacrifice, and unrelenting pursuit of excellence. And for Mandhana herself, it’s a triumph that will forever define her legacy — a champion who dreamed big, stayed awake to make it real, and finally woke up to the sound of a billion cheers.

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