Indian cricketer Smriti Mandhana has been an inspirational figure in women’s cricket, admired for her elegant batting and leadership qualities. One of the more interesting insights from Mandhana is her admiration for Virat Kohli, particularly his mindset and approach to handling expectations—an issue that every top-level athlete faces.
In various interviews, Mandhana has frequently referred to Kohli as her favorite cricketer and someone she looks up to. During one of her interactions, she candidly revealed how a conversation with Kohli helped her shift her perspective on dealing with pressure in the sport. Mandhana had asked Kohli about his ability to handle the constant weight of expectations from fans and the media. Kohli’s response was simple yet profound: “I don’t look at expectations, I just do what my team needs.” This mindset struck a chord with Mandhana, helping her find a more grounded approach to managing her own game.
Mandhana, who has faced immense pressure as a leading player for India and her franchises in various leagues, found great comfort in this advice. Kohli’s words seemed to provide clarity to Mandhana, enabling her to focus on team objectives rather than getting bogged down by individual expectations. In her own words, this conversation helped her feel “in a better mindset” after speaking to Kohli.
As one of the top female cricketers, Mandhana has continuously tried to emulate Kohli’s relentless work ethic and determination. His influence is evident not just in her batting but also in the way she approaches the game mentally. Kohli, known for his aggressive and determined style, has long been hailed as one of the best batsmen in the world, particularly in chase situations. He is a player who thrives under pressure, and this quality is something that Mandhana has sought to bring into her own game.
Mandhana’s admiration for Kohli goes beyond just his on-field heroics. She has often spoken about how his fitness and discipline have served as a benchmark for cricketers globally, regardless of gender. For young athletes like Mandhana, who are carving their place in a rapidly growing world of women’s cricket, having a mentor like Kohli to look up to is invaluable.
The camaraderie between the two cricketers extends beyond just words of wisdom. Mandhana has spoken about how Kohli has supported her career, particularly during tough times. His encouragement came after a poor run of form during a previous season, where Mandhana struggled to find her rhythm. Kohli’s pep talk during this time is something Mandhana has referred to in post-match interviews, further emphasizing the impact he’s had on her career.
This mentoring relationship highlights an important aspect of sports: the passing of experience from one generation to another. As women’s cricket continues to grow globally, the lessons and insights from male cricketers like Kohli can help bridge gaps in experience and performance. Mandhana’s ability to absorb these lessons and apply them in her own journey is a testament to her maturity as a player and a leader.
Looking ahead, Mandhana is poised to continue her upward trajectory in international cricket. As she channels the mindset and lessons she has learned from Kohli, it’s likely that her career will only continue to flourish. Her leadership role, coupled with her evolving mental toughness, is sure to make her a pivotal figure in Indian women’s cricket for years to come.
In conclusion, Smriti Mandhana’s conversation with Virat Kohli was more than just a casual exchange; it was a meeting of two cricketing minds. Kohli’s ability to thrive under pressure and stay focused on team goals has left an indelible mark on Mandhana, shaping the way she approaches her own game. As she continues to lead Indian women’s cricket, this mindset will undoubtedly be one of her greatest assets.