India’s Slump and Mounting Pressure
India endured a rough stretch midway through the tournament, losing three consecutive matches. The defeat against England was especially painful as the team appeared to be in control for most of the game.
Speaking on the Royal Challengers Bengaluru podcast, Mandhana admitted that the loss stayed with her long after the match ended. She described it as the moment she felt most disappointed in herself during the entire campaign.
Mandhana on Self-Doubt and Mental Battle
Mandhana said she entered the World Cup in excellent form but struggled to replicate it in the opening matches. She reflected on her inability to make strong starts, something she prides herself on in one-day cricket.
After early losses, including one against South Africa, Mandhana found herself questioning her decisions despite feeling confident in the nets. She admitted uncertainty over whether pressure or poor shot selection contributed to her struggles.
The England Match That Haunted Her
The England game proved to be a turning point emotionally. Mandhana revealed that she kept replaying the moment of her dismissal in her mind, questioning the shot she played at a crucial juncture.
She recalled sitting silently during the team’s flight the next day, unable to speak to anyone as disappointment and pressure consumed her thoughts.
Fear of Not Qualifying at Home
Mandhana admitted the pressure intensified because the World Cup was being played in India. She feared that failure to qualify for the semi-finals could severely impact the growth of women’s cricket in the country.
The weight of expectations led to sleepless nights before the must-win match against New Zealand, with Mandhana describing it as the most pressure she had ever felt in her career.
Redemption Against New Zealand
Under immense pressure, Mandhana delivered one of the finest innings of her career, scoring a brilliant 109 off 95 balls against New Zealand. The knock played a decisive role in keeping India’s semi-final hopes alive.
She said the innings was special not only because of the stakes but also because of how quickly public opinion changes in sport. Mandhana highlighted the team’s unity and preparation as key factors behind the turnaround.
Standing Strong Amid Criticism
Mandhana also addressed the online criticism faced by women cricketers, stating that while trolls are ever-present, the team focuses on supporting each other internally.
She emphasized that the collective belief within the squad helped her overcome the emotional toll of the earlier losses and refocus on the bigger goal.
A Defining Chapter in Mandhana’s Career
The 2025 Women’s World Cup may not have started smoothly for Mandhana, but her honesty about vulnerability and pressure offers a rare insight into the mental challenges faced by elite athletes.
Her comeback innings against New Zealand stands as a testament to resilience, reinforcing her status as one of India’s most influential batters in modern women’s cricket.
