Smriti Mandhana Clinches Fifth Best International Cricketer Award at Naman 2026
In a glittering ceremony held in New Delhi on Sunday, India's vice-captain and world No.1 ODI batter, Smriti Mandhana, was honored with the Best International Cricketer-Women award for the fifth time in her illustrious career. The prestigious Naman Awards 2026 celebrated exceptional achievements across international, domestic, and age-group cricket, with other notable winners including Deepti Sharma and Sree Charani.
Mandhana's Remarkable Year and Career Milestones
Smriti Mandhana's award comes on the back of a phenomenal year where she amassed 1,800 runs in 36 matches, including seven centuries, showcasing her elegance and consistency. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) highlighted her achievements in a social media post, noting her role as a key player for #TeamIndia. Mandhana, who made her senior international debut in 2013, has since become one of the most prolific batters in women's cricket.
She holds the distinction of being the first Indian women's player to score hundreds in all three international formats. Over her career, Mandhana has featured in 288 fixtures across formats, accumulating 10,277 runs with 17 hundreds and 71 fifties. Her Test debut in 2014 against England at Wormsley, where she scored a maiden fifty, marked the beginning of a stellar journey.
Deepti Sharma Recognized for Bowling Excellence
Deepti Sharma was awarded for scalping the highest number of wickets in the previous year, particularly excelling in ODIs. The BCCI praised her experience and effectiveness, noting her crucial role in India's 2025 World Cup victory, where she was named Player of the Tournament with 22 wickets and 215 runs. Deepti first gained attention in 2016 as the youngest Indian, male or female, to take an ODI five-wicket haul against Sri Lanka in Ranchi at age 18.
In her career spanning 266 matches across all formats, Deepti has taken 341 wickets, including five five-wicket hauls, solidifying her reputation as a top all-rounder.
Sree Charani Honored for Stellar International Debut
Sree Charani received the Best International Debut-Women award for her impactful entry into international cricket. Her slow left-arm spin has made a significant mark in her early career, with 47 wickets in 34 matches (T20 and ODI formats), including a four-wicket haul. The BCCI commended her for arriving on the international stage in style and maintaining her momentum.
Celebrating Women's Cricket Achievements
The Naman Awards 2026 underscored the growing prominence of women's cricket in India, recognizing players who have contributed to the sport's success. This annual event not only honors individual performances but also inspires future generations. With stars like Mandhana, Sharma, and Charani leading the way, Indian women's cricket continues to shine on the global stage, setting new benchmarks for excellence and dedication.
