Smriti Mandhana named BBC Indian Sportswoman of the Year 2025 after leading India to historic ODI World Cup victory. Other Indian athletes also recognized at BBC Awards 2025.
India’s cricketing superstar and vice-captain, Smriti Mandhana, has been named the BBC Indian Sportswoman of the Year 2025 in recognition of her outstanding contribution to India’s historic ODI World Cup triumph last year. Mandhana played a pivotal role in India’s maiden ODI World Cup win at home, where they defeated South Africa in the final to lift the trophy.
The award was received on her behalf by her mother, Smriti Mandhana, during a glittering ceremony. The decision was made by a distinguished jury comprising Leander Paes, Deepa Malik, and Anju Bobby George, who unanimously recognized Mandhana’s exceptional performance throughout the year.
In a video message shared at the event, Smriti Mandhana expressed her gratitude:
“Thank you, BBC, for giving me the award for Best Sportswoman of the Year. 2025 was a special year for women’s cricket, especially with the World Cup victory, and I’m happy I could contribute to India winning matches.”
Currently, Smriti Mandhana is touring Australia with the Indian cricket team, participating in three T20Is, three ODIs, and one Test match.
Other Indian Winners at BBC Awards 2025
Several other Indian athletes were recognized for their remarkable achievements:
Divya Deshmukh, the chess prodigy, won Emerging Player of the Year for her historic FIDE Women’s World Cup triumph at just 20 years old.
Ekta Bhyan, Deepthi Jeevanji, Preethi Pal, Rajbir Kaur, Savita Punia, Paani Devi, and Anjali Bhagwat were also honored for their exceptional performances across various disciplines.
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BBC Star Performers of the Year 2025
Indian Women’s Cricket Team – for their ODI World Cup victory.
Ekta Bhyan, Deepthi Jeevanji, and Preethi Pal – for standout performances at the World Para Athletics Championship.
Indian Women’s Cricket Team for the Blind – for their inspiring World Cup success.
Indian Women’s Kabaddi Team – for their World Cup triumph.
BBC Changemakers of the Year 2025
Indian Women’s Ice Hockey Team – for breaking barriers in a non-traditional sport.
Rajbir Kaur – former captain of the Indian women’s field hockey team.
Savita Punia – key player in the Indian women’s hockey squad.
Paani Devi – recognized for impactful grassroots sporting contributions.
Jonathan Munro, CEO of BBC News, praised the winners:
“Congratulations to this year’s winners who showcase the very best in sporting excellence. BBC World Service is committed to bringing stories of human endeavor and outstanding success to audiences across India and around the world.”
With this recognition, Smriti Mandhana continues to inspire millions of young athletes across India, reinforcing the growing prominence of women’s sports on both national and global stages.
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