Indian cricket star Smriti Mandhana on Thursday outlined her ambitious vision for the Indian women’s cricket team, emphasizing their goal to be the best team in the world across formats. Speaking ahead of the Women’s Premier League (WPL) opener, Mandhana said the tournament plays a critical role in preparing the national side for upcoming global challenges, including the T20 World Cup 2026 in England.

Mandhana, captain of Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), highlighted the lessons from India’s maiden ODI World Cup triumph last year, noting that while the victory was historic, the team has many areas to improve. “We want to dominate consistently, not just for one tournament. WPL is bridging that gap,” she said, underlining the league’s role in honing players for international cricket.

India captain Harmanpreet Kaur echoed Mandhana, saying the team now aspires to bigger goals beyond a single World Cup. She praised the impact of WPL in instilling a winning mindset, adding that newer players are pushing themselves harder and adapting quickly to international standards. “Players are no longer in their comfort zones; everyone is working hard,” Harmanpreet remarked.

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Mandhana also addressed the pathway from WPL to national selection. She said standout performances in the T20 league can earn players a spot in the Indian squad for the T20 World Cup, stressing that exceptional talent will always be recognized, regardless of experience. The duo emphasized that opportunities remain open, especially for younger players showcasing extraordinary skills.

Reflecting on RCB’s team strategy, Mandhana noted that the franchise had anticipated Ellyse Perry’s absence for the season, which allowed them to adjust their auction plans accordingly. Despite missing the Australian legend, Mandhana expressed confidence in RCB’s young squad, highlighting strong team chemistry and enthusiasm as key strengths heading into the tournament.

Returning to the DY Patil Stadium, the site of India’s historic ODI final victory last November, Mandhana shared nostalgic memories of Harmanpreet’s winning catch. She quipped about guiding her RCB teammates to avoid certain areas of the field, showing the team’s camaraderie and the lasting imprint of their World Cup triumph. “Even after 20 years, we will remember those moments,” she said.

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