Smriti Mandhana: “In Cricket, Every Match Starts from Zero” – On Mindset Across Formats

India, Dec 30 : India vice-captain Smriti Mandhana stressed the importance of starting each innings afresh, saying past performances do not guarantee future success. She highlighted the need for a balanced mindset across T20s, ODIs, and Test cricket.

“In cricket, you have to start from zero. The scoreboard always begins at zero. It’s never about what you’ve done in the last match or previous series,” Mandhana said in a video shared by the BCCI. She explained that each format demands a different approach, with T20 requiring quicker recovery from failures compared to the longer formats.

“T20 is a format where you can’t be extremely hard on yourself after getting out because there are good days and bad days. In ODIs and Tests, I’m tougher on myself because you have more time, so getting out feels heavier,” she added.

Mandhana also spoke about handling successes and failures, emphasizing consistency over individual brilliance. “There are days when you win the match, and days when you won’t. You have to take both in stride and not overthink. It’s all about quick turnover,” she said.

Reflecting on India’s recent ODI World Cup triumph, she cautioned against resting on past laurels. “Winning the One Day World Cup was huge for women’s cricket, but we can’t dwell only on successes. This young team is always a work in progress,” Mandhana said, rating the team’s overall performance this year as “seven out of ten.”

Thanking fans for their support, particularly during the World Cup, she added, “It’s been a fantastic year for women’s cricket. We hope to keep making fans proud and evolving as a team.”