Indian women's cricket vice-captain Smriti Mandhana has made the difficult decision to skip the highly anticipated Kaun Banega Crorepati episode featuring the World Cup champion team. This development comes amid personal challenges for the star batter, who recently postponed her wedding with singer Palash Muchhal.
Family First: Mandhana's Personal Priorities
The cricket star's absence from the KBC-17 special episode stems from a family health emergency. Mandhana postponed her wedding with Palash Muchhal due to her father's health scare, demonstrating her commitment to family during difficult times. The episode, scheduled to feature the entire Indian women's cricket World Cup champion squad, will now proceed without one of its most recognizable faces.
While Mandhana focuses on her father's recovery, her teammates including captain Harmanpreet Kaur and wicketkeeper Richa Ghosh are confirmed to appear on the popular game show. The episode was meant to celebrate the team's recent World Cup triumph and bring the champions closer to their fans.
Team Appearance Amid Speculation
The Indian women's cricket team's appearance on KBC-17 represents a significant moment for women's sports in India. Despite Mandhana's absence, the presence of other team members ensures cricket fans will still get to see their heroes in a different light. The show typically features interesting anecdotes and personal stories from guests, offering insights beyond their sporting achievements.
Meanwhile, speculation continues around Mandhana's personal life beyond just the KBC absence. Recent rumors about her relationship with Palash Muchhal have circulated online, though the cricketer has maintained focus on her family priorities. The wedding postponement announcement came as a surprise to many fans who had been following the couple's relationship journey.
What's Next for Mandhana and Indian Cricket
While missing the KBC appearance is disappointing for fans, Mandhana's priority remains clear: her father's health and family wellbeing. The cricket star has consistently shown dedication both on and off the field, and this personal decision reflects her values.
The Indian women's cricket team continues to gain mainstream recognition through appearances like the KBC-17 episode. Such platforms help popularize women's sports and inspire younger generations of athletes. Despite one key absence, the team's collective appearance represents another milestone in their growing popularity.
As Mandhana takes time away from public appearances to support her family, cricket enthusiasts await her return to the field. Her absence from the celebratory episode underscores the human side of sports stars, reminding fans that athletes face personal challenges alongside professional commitments.
