Smriti Mandhana Recognized Among TIME's Most Influential Athletes

Smriti Mandhana, the Indian women's cricket sensation, has been recognized in TIME magazine's prestigious list of the 100 most influential sports figures. As the only Indian on the list, she joins an elite group of athletes and coaches shaping the future of sports. Known for her remarkable achievements, including leading RCB to multiple Women's Premier League titles and her pivotal role in India's ICC Women's World Cup victory, Mandhana continues to break records and inspire. Currently competing in the Women's T20 World Cup, she aims to add another trophy to her illustrious career. Read on to learn more about her journey and impact on the sport.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 16, 2026, 12:30 IST

Smriti Mandhana's Remarkable Achievement

Indian women's cricket star Smriti Mandhana has made it to TIME magazine's list of the 100 most influential sports figures. Notably, she stands out as the sole Indian representative among a diverse group of athletes, coaches, and advocates who are currently shaping the sports landscape. The list is topped by NBA icon LeBron James and features renowned personalities such as Lionel Messi, Eileen Gu, tennis sensation Carlos Alcaraz, basketball prodigy Victor Wembanyama, and golf legend Rory McIlroy. Other notable names include Cristiano Ronaldo, South African cricket captain Temba Bavuma, New York Knicks player Jalen Brunson, and FIFA president Gianni Infantino.

Mandhana's Historic Journey

Mandhana is celebrated as one of the sport's greats, becoming only the second Indian, after Mithali Raj, to achieve the milestone of 10,000 runs across all formats. TIME magazine acknowledged her remarkable contributions, particularly her leadership in guiding RCB to two Women's Premier League titles and her role as vice captain during India's ICC Women's World Cup victory, where she was the second-highest run-scorer. In 2024, she set a record for the most international runs by a woman across formats, subsequently surpassing her own record last year. Mandhana takes immense pride in her team accomplishments, having captained the Royal Challengers Bangalore to the 2024 and 2026 WPL titles and serving as vice captain for India's success in the ICC Women's World Cup.

Currently, Mandhana is part of the Indian squad competing in the Women's T20 World Cup in England, aiming to add a T20 World Cup trophy to her impressive list of achievements.