Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis honoured cricketers Smriti Mandhana, Jemimah Rodrigues, and Radha Yadav with Rs 2.25 crore each. These players, part of the Indian Women's World Cup-winning
team, were celebrated at the CM's official residence in Mumbai.
Fadnavis praised their achievement as a source of pride for Maharashtra, noting that their victory would inspire young girls to pursue sports globally.
The Harmanpreet Kaur-led team achieved a historic milestone by winning the 50-over World Cup. They secured a 52-run victory against South Africa in Navi Mumbai. Fadnavis remarked, "You've made Maharashtra proud. Your victory has brought immense joy to the state. " He highlighted Jemimah's crucial century in the semifinal as pivotal to reaching the finals.
CM Fadnavis emphasised the importance of teamwork and camaraderie in their success. He stated that professional cricket victories require support from coaches and staff. The coach, Amol Muzumdar, received Rs 22.5 lakh, while support staff members were awarded Rs 11 lakh each. The event was attended by notable figures like bowling coach Avishkar Salvi and former cricketer Diana Edulji.
Vice-captain Smriti Mandhana expressed gratitude to Maharashtra for its support. She acknowledged the role of the support system behind their success. "Thank you for inviting and felicitating us in Mumbai," she said, adding that many support staff members hail from Maharashtra.
Coach Muzumdar praised the players' focus and resilience over two years. "When we came to Mumbai for the semifinals and finals, we had that enthusiasm and belief that something historic would happen here," he noted. He admired the players' dedication to winning the World Cup.
Radha Yadav shared her pride in being honoured for the first time. "I feel really proud and grateful to everyone who supported me," she said. Jemimah Rodrigues expressed her desire to leave a positive legacy for future generations, stating that her parents' happiness means everything.
Parallels with Past Triumphs
Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar compared this victory to India's 1983 World Cup win under Kapil Dev. He noted how cricket became a national passion then and how these women have done similarly for their generation now. Prime Minister Narendra Modi acknowledged their achievement, saying it won hearts nationwide.
Pawar highlighted Smriti Mandhana as an iconic player and praised Jemimah Rodrigues for her dual talents in cricket and entertainment. He also commended Radha Yadav's inspiring story of resilience, emphasising how opportunities for rural girls can lead to national pride.
With inputs from PTI
