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Indian cricket sensation and Royal Challengers Bengaluru Women (RCB-W) captain Smriti Mandhana was named Sportswoman of the Year in the team sports category at the fifth edition of the Indian Sports Honours. The star batter received the prestigious accolade for her stellar performances, which included leading RCB-W to their maiden WPL title in 2024.
This marks the second time Mandhana has received this honor, her first being in 2019, further cementing her status as one of India’s greatest athletes.
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A Night of Celebrations in Mumbai
The fifth edition of the Indian Sports Honours was held on November 9, 2024, in Mumbai, celebrating the achievements of India’s top athletes across various disciplines, including cricket, Olympic sports, and more. Hosted by Cornerstone Sport, the event drew notable names from the world of sports and entertainment, with a focus on recognizing India’s successes on the global stage.
Mandhana, a pivotal figure in Indian women’s cricket, was lauded not only for her batting brilliance but also for her leadership, which inspired her team to glory in the inaugural Women’s Premier League (WPL).
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Mandhana’s Response to the Honor
Gracious in her victory, Mandhana reflected on what the award meant to her and its broader significance for women in sports.
“Extremely happy and proud not just for being bestowed with this honour but for what it stands for. I hope this inspires all the women out there to reach new heights and make us proud,” said Mandhana.
Her 2024 season was marked by consistent performances, tactical acumen, and an ability to shine under pressure, whether donning the Indian jersey or leading RCB-W.
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KKR Bags Club of the Year
The Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) were also celebrated at the event, winning the Club of the Year award for their stellar performance in IPL 2024. Under the mentorship of Gautam Gambhir and the captaincy of Shreyas Iyer, KKR clinched their third IPL title, defeating Sunrisers Hyderabad by eight wickets in a dominant final display.
Their achievement was described as a campaign of resilience, teamwork, and brilliance, earning them well-deserved recognition at the Indian Sports Honours.
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A Celebration of Excellence in Indian Sports
The Indian Sports Honours once again proved to be a fitting platform to recognize the athletes and teams that continue to elevate India’s stature on the global sports stage. With Mandhana and KKR taking home the top awards, the event reinforced the importance of celebrating excellence, inspiring the next generation of sporting talent in the country.
