'We'll strive to get the gold medal' - Smriti Mandhana sets sights on CWG 2022 success

The 2022 Commonwealth Games will mark the reintroduction of Cricket in the tournament, after a lengthy period of 24 years. To add to the excitement, the women’s tournament will be held for the first time in the 10-day long sporting extravaganza. 

India’s vice-captain and talismanic batter Smriti Mandhana is thrilled to be a part of the multi-sport event. The 26-year-old batter has set her sights straight on the gold medal, as she has always visualised herself lifting a major trophy.

"We haven't had an experience of playing in a commonwealth games, where we'll strive to get the gold medal because we've always imagined us lifting the trophy and trying to put us on a podium where we lift a trophy,” said Smriti Mandhana, as quoted by Cricbuzz.

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Smriti Mandhana draws inspiration from Neeraj Chopra

Smriti Mandhana reveals that she draws inspiration from India’s ace javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra. The youngster scripted history last year in Tokyo, when he became the first Indian to claim a gold medal in track and field events. 

"I got goosebumps when Neeraj Chopra got it in the Olympics so definitely we have the opportunity to be there and try and do that. Of course not for the Olympics, but for the Commonwealth,” said Smriti Mandhana.

India to face arch-rivals Pakistan in the league stage

India have been placed in a tricky group, which involves reigning T20I champions Australia, arch-rivals Pakistan and Barbados. They kick start their campaign on July 29 against the gold medal favourites Australia.

“We all are really excited and yeah we know the groups (India, Australia, Pakistan and Barbados), the groups were decided long back so we have our plans for all three so hopefully things work the way we planned," Mandhana added.