Smriti Mandhana Takes Responsibility After Defeat Against England: “Maybe Emotions Took Over for That Shot”

Indore: Indian vice-captain Smriti Mandhana reflected candidly on India’s heartbreaking defeat against england in the ODI match on Sunday night. Her 88-run knock, followed by a crucial partnership with Harmanpreet Kaur (70), had put India within touching distance of their highest-ever ODI run chase. However, Mandhana’s dismissal sparked a sudden collapse that turned the game in England’s favor.

“With our limited selections, we could have performed better. Since I was the one who initiated it, I will take responsibility for the fact that the shot selection was subpar,” Mandhana told the media after the match. “All we needed was six runs per over. Perhaps we ought to have played the game more carefully. The collapse started from me, so I’ll take that upon myself,” she added.

Turning Point: Mandhana’s Dismissal Against Linsey Smith

At a stage when India required just 55 runs off 53 balls, Mandhana attempted to attack Linsey Smith, the left-arm spinner, by lofting the ball over the covers. However, she mistimed the shot as the delivery angled away from her reach, leading to her dismissal. “I thought I could take her on,” Mandhana explained. “I was aiming over covers but mistimed it. Maybe that shot wasn’t needed at that time. I should’ve been more patient — emotions took over, which never helps in Cricket.”

Despite her departure, India remained in a promising position with Deepti Sharma well-set at the crease and Richa Ghosh, Amanjot Kaur, and Sneh Rana yet to bat. However, Ghosh struggled to find rhythm, and Deepti’s wicket in Sophie Ecclestone’s final over derailed India’s chase. England capitalized on the momentum with disciplined bowling in the death overs, sealing victory in a thrilling finish.

Mandhana on the Finishing Responsibility

When asked if India’s batting lineup is becoming too reliant on Richa Ghosh to finish games, Mandhana dismissed the notion. “Of course, Richa has been good for us, but it’s not all dependent on her. We just needed 6.5 runs per over — not nine. We’ve seen Amanjot do it in the WPL, and Sneh Rana has also been brilliant in the last few matches. We all take responsibility; we could have done better in those final six overs,” she remarked.

Mandhana’s Reflection: “My Innings Doesn’t Matter If We Lose”

Despite playing one of her most composed innings, employing elegant cuts and late cuts, Mandhana refused to take solace in her personal milestone. “My innings doesn’t mean anything because we lost,” she said firmly. “I had to be patient today, especially since Lauren Bell was getting some movement off the pitch. I tried to bat according to the team’s needs, but that one delivery changed everything.”

Mandhana also highlighted how emotional decision-making can affect composure in tight run-chases. “You tell yourself to stay patient, but sometimes, in that moment, emotions take control. That’s what happened today. I’ll learn from it and come back stronger,” she concluded.

India’s Collapse: From Control to Chaos

India’s chase looked well-managed for the majority of the innings, with Mandhana and Harmanpreet ensuring stability. However, once Mandhana fell, England’s bowlers regained control with accurate lines and clever variations. Smith and Ecclestone were particularly impressive, exploiting pressure situations effectively. Despite a valiant effort, India fell agonizingly short of what could have been a record-breaking chase.

Conclusion: Lessons Ahead for Team India

Smriti Mandhana’s accountability and honest self-assessment underline the team’s collective learning curve. While the match ended in disappointment, the fighting spirit and solid partnerships provide hope for the upcoming fixtures. Mandhana’s remarks reflect maturity and leadership — essential traits as India continues to evolve as a top ODI side.