Smriti Mandhana Becomes Only Indian Athlete in TIME's 100 Most Influential People in Sports

India women's cricket team vice-captain Smriti Mandhana is the only Indian athlete named in TIME magazine's list of 100 most influential people in sports.

The annual index list recognises athletes, administrators, coaches, investors and executives shaping the future of world sport.

Mandhana was placed alongside some of the biggest names in international sport, including football stars Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.

The 29-year-old Mandhana's impact both on and off the field was acknowledged by the respected magazine.

The left handed opener has scored more than 4,500 ODI runs and over 4,000 T20I runs for India, while also establishing herself as a marquee player across franchise leagues around the world, twice winning the ICC Women's Cricketer of the Year award.

"It is truly humbling to be included among people who are shaping the future of sport around the world. This recognition is not just mine but belongs to Indian women's cricket and everyone who has supported our journey," she said.

"Women's cricket has grown tremendously over the last few years, and it is exciting to be part of this transformation."

Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) secretary Devajit Saikia congratulated the batter on the achievement.

"Smriti's inclusion reflects not only her excellence as a cricketer but also her influence as an ambassador for women's sport. She has inspired a generation of young girls to pursue cricket professionally," Saikia said.