Smriti Mandhana was expected to be India's linchpin in the batting department in the Women's World Cup 2025, especially after the kind of performances she put on in the lead-up to the marquee event. However, in India's first two matches in the eight-team competition, the southpaw managed scores of 8 and 23 against Sri Lanka and Pakistan, respectively. On both occasions, she was dismissed by pacers.
However, despite Smriti's indifferent start to the campaign, India won both matches. Experienced Indian wicketkeeper Sushma Verma feels that Smriti's lack of runs isn't a huge area of concern for the Women in Blue. Verma opined that seasoned campaigners like Jemimah Rodrigues and Harmanpreet Kaur can make a significant impact.
Verma, who hasn't played for India since 2021, feels that if Smriti gets out cheaply, it serves as a blessing in disguise, giving the other batters in the team a chance to step up.