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Discover how Smriti Mandhana and Shubman Gill topped the BCCI Naman Awards 2026, celebrating their outstanding contributions to Indian cricket.
GlipzoIn a celebration of cricket excellence, Smriti Mandhana and Shubman Gill were recognized as the Best International Cricketers at the BCCI Naman Awards 2026 held on March 15, 2026, in New Delhi. This prestigious event highlighted their remarkable contributions to the sport during the 2024–2025 season, solidifying their statuses as leading figures in Indian cricket.
The awards ceremony not only celebrated individual brilliance but also emphasized the collective achievements of the Indian cricket team. Gill, who took home the coveted Polly Umrigar Award, has now earned the title of Cricketer of the Year for the second time, having first claimed it in 2023. Meanwhile, this marks the fifth time Mandhana has been recognized with this honor, showcasing her consistency and skill in the game.
Both players have made significant impacts on the field, with Gill emerging as a reliable performer in the longer formats of the game. His standout performance during the five-Test series against England was particularly noteworthy, where he topped the run charts with a phenomenal 754 runs across 10 innings, boasting an impressive average of 75.40. This included four centuries, with a remarkable high score of 269.
Gill's contributions extend beyond individual accolades; he played a crucial role in India's Champions Trophy victory last year. Entering the tournament as the No. 1 ODI batter globally, he commenced with a stellar performance against Bangladesh, scoring an unbeaten 101 in the opening match and finishing the tournament with a total of 188 runs. His ability to perform under pressure has solidified his reputation as one of India's most dependable batsmen.
On the women's side, Smriti Mandhana had an extraordinary year, concluding 2025 with a remarkable total of 1,703 international runs. This figure included 1,362 runs in ODIs, marking the highest by any woman in a single calendar year and making her the first female cricketer to hit 1,000 ODI runs in a year. Her achievements underscore her critical role in the evolution of women’s cricket in India.
Mandhana also significantly contributed to India's historic Women's World Cup title victory, amassing 434 runs in just nine matches. She finished as India’s top run-scorer and the second-highest overall in the tournament. Her record-breaking 50-ball century against Australia in New Delhi, which surpassed Virat Kohli's previous record, further cements her status as a game-changer in women's cricket.
The BCCI Naman Awards also honored cricketing legends such as Roger Binny, Rahul Dravid, and Mithali Raj with the Col. C. K. Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award. This recognition reflects their enduring contributions and commitment to the sport, inspiring future generations of cricketers.
The recognition of Mandhana and Gill at the BCCI Naman Awards highlights the evolution of cricket in India, showcasing the growing prominence of women's cricket alongside the established men's game. Their achievements serve as a source of inspiration for young athletes across the nation, emphasizing that dedication and talent can lead to remarkable success.
Moreover, these awards play a significant role in promoting cricket as a sport in India, encouraging more fans to engage with the game and support their teams. As the cricketing world looks ahead, the performances of these star players will be crucial in shaping the future of Indian cricket on international platforms.
As we move forward, all eyes will be on both Gill and Mandhana in the upcoming cricket seasons. Their performances will be key in upcoming tournaments, including the next ICC events and bilateral series. Fans and analysts alike will be keen to see if they can maintain their form and lead India to further victories.
In conclusion, the achievements of Smriti Mandhana and Shubman Gill at the BCCI Naman Awards 2026 are not just milestones for their careers but pivotal moments for Indian cricket as a whole. Their success stories will undoubtedly resonate and inspire many aspiring cricketers in the years to come.
Published - March 16, 2026 02:17 am IST
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