India vice-captain Smriti Mandhana was among the happiest members of the squad as captain Harmanpreet Kaur received the prestigious Padma Shri award on Monday. The Indian women’s team, currently training in Chelmsford ahead of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup, paused their preparations to witness the special moment together in the dressing room.
As Harmanpreet’s name was announced during the Civil Investiture Ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan, the players erupted in applause and cheers while watching the ceremony. Smriti Mandhana, who shares a close bond with the skipper both on and off the field, was visibly emotional and immediately video-called Harmanpreet to congratulate her after she received the honour.
The heartwarming scenes reflected the unity within the Indian camp ahead of a crucial global tournament. A video shared by the BCCI Women’s handle captured the squad celebrating together in Chelmsford while Harmanpreet joined the moment virtually on video call. The caption read: “One for all and all for one. Moments to truly cherish as Team India celebrates Captain Harmanpreet Kaur’s prestigious Padma Shri award in Chelmsford.”
Harmanpreet received the Padma Shri from President Droupadi Murmu in recognition of her immense contribution to Indian cricket. The honour came months after she led India to a historic ICC Women’s ODI World Cup triumph on home soil in 2025, ending the country’s long wait for a senior women’s world title.
INDIA MAKE WINNING START IN ENGLAND
Before the Women’s T20 World Cup, India are also set to face England in a three-match T20I series. Ahead of that assignment, the Women in Blue secured a convincing seven-wicket win over the ECB Development Women’s XI in a warm-up match at The Ambassador Cruise Line Ground in Chelmsford.
Chasing 155, India comfortably reached 158 for three in just 16.2 overs to begin their England tour on a positive note. However, since it was a practice fixture, India continued batting for the full 20 overs and eventually finished on 200 for six.
Batting first, the ECB Development Women’s XI posted 154 for six in their 20 overs. Florence Miller top-scored with 48 off 41 balls, while Joanne Gardner contributed 36 off 27 deliveries. Sophia Smale remained unbeaten on 27 from 18 balls.
India’s bowling effort was led by Arundhati Reddy, who claimed three wickets, while Deepti Sharma and Shreyanka Patil chipped in with one wicket each to keep the scoring under control during the middle overs.
In reply, India’s top order dominated from the outset. Smriti Mandhana smashed 21 off just 10 balls, including three fours and a six, before Shafali Verma stole the spotlight with a blistering 50 off 25 deliveries.
Yastika Bhatia also impressed with 47 off 35 balls, while Bharti Fulmali remained unbeaten on 27. India crossed the target with 22 balls to spare, showcasing their batting depth and strong preparation ahead of the Women’s T20 World Cup and the upcoming T20I series against England.
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