As the tension between India and Pakistan intensifies, Indian women’s cricket vice-captain Smriti Mandhana has stepped forward to express her unwavering support and respect for the Indian Armed Forces.
Mandhana honours Indian armed forces during heightened India-Pakistan strain
Amid growing cross-border concerns, Mandhana shared a heartfelt message on her Instagram story on Saturday, where she paid tribute to the courage and sacrifices of the soldiers safeguarding the nation. She wrote, “Saluting the courage, commitment and sacrifice of our Indian armed forces. Your strength protects our freedom. We stand with you, always. Vande Mataram,”
The timing of this message showcased her emotional connection with the pulse of the nation during a moment of heightened anxiety. Mandhana’s tribute has been widely appreciated across platforms, showing that even amid her international cricket commitments, she remains deeply rooted in national sentiment and solidarity. In such a tense climate, public figures like Mandhana expressing support for the military helps unify the nation’s emotional and psychological response to external threats.
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Mandhana set for crucial final against Sri Lanka amid national turmoil
Even as the country grapples with geopolitical tension, Mandhana remains focused on her primary responsibility on the field. She is expected to be a central figure in India’s campaign in the final of the ongoing Tri-Nation Women’s ODI Series against Sri Lanka, set to be played on Sunday at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. Her form have been crucial throughout the series, and her history against Sri Lanka further cements her importance in the final. With 498 runs in 15 One Day Internationals against Sri Lanka at an average of 38.30, including five half-centuries, Mandhana is one of India’s top run-scorer among players from either side in this fixture.
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This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.
