The triumphant Women's ODI World Cup 2025 trio of Smriti Mandhana, Jemimah Rodrigues, and Radha Yadav was felicitated by Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy CM Ajit Pawar.
Mandhana, Jemimah, Radha get Rs 2.25 crore prize money from Maharashtra government
The ceremony took place shortly after the players arrived in Mumbai from Delhi, following their instrumental role in the Indian Team's recent Women's World Cup-winning campaign. India thrashed South Africa by 52 run in the thrilling final to clinch their maiden Women's ODI World Cup title on November 2 at the DY Patil Stadium. As a recognition of their match-winning performances, each of the three celebrated athletes was presented with a shawl, a bouquet, and a whopping prize money.
Each of the three players received a Rs 2.25 crore cheque as a cash award. Jemimah Rodrigues was notably joined by her parents during the ceremony. The coaching and support staff were also honored for their crucial contributions; Head Coach Amol Muzumdar received a cheque of Rs 22.5 lakh. The ceremony's attendees included Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, Sports Minister Adv. Manikrao Kokate, Cultural Affairs Minister Ashish Shelar, Principal Secretary Sanjay Khandare, and Commissioner Sheetal Teli.
The felicitation was comprehensive, extending beyond the core playing group and head coach. To acknowledge the collective effort behind the team's success, bowling coach Avishkar Salvi, analyst Aniruddha Deshpande, and former cricketer Padma Shri Diana Edulji were also recognized. Furthermore, members of the essential support staff, including Apama Gambhirrao, Mihir Upadhyay, Purva Kate, and Mamta Shirrulla, were also individually felicitated for their vital roles in the team's historic triumph.
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The felicitation programme extended beyond the main players and staff. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced a collective cash award of Rs 11 lakh for all members of the support staff, recognizing their vital, behind-the-scenes role in securing India’s victory. This followed previous announcements by individual state governments recognizing players from their respective regions.
Not just Maharashtra government, even Himachal Pradesh chief minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu announced a substantial cash prize of Rs 1 crore for pacer Renuka Singh Thakur, specifically lauding her relentless contribution with the ball throughout India's victorious campaign. Hailing from Rohru in Shimla district, Renuka played a key role in maintaining pressure on opponents. Similarly, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav announced a Rs 1 crore reward for batter Kranti Gaud.