'If she gets tanned, no one will marry her' - Smriti Mandhana credits parents for blocking negativity throughout cricket journey

Star India batter Smriti Mandhana recalled her cricket journey and the challenges she had faced while building her career. She also stated that her parents were teased by so many people previously. 

Mandhana, along with men's wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan had appeared on the quiz-based reality show 'Kaun Banega Crorepati 15' hosted by cine icon Amitabh Bachchan. During the show, he asked Mandhana about her cricket journey.

"Mr Computer says that you hail from a family who share an association with cricket. How would you describe your journey in the sport?" asked Bachchan. 

To which she replied, "Yes, sir. My father and brother were both into cricket since childhood. It was Dad's dream too... His family didn't grant him permission to pursue the sport. He wanted both his children to play cricket and at least one of them to represent India."

"I think from the time I was in my mother's womb. I used to practice too, mostly fetching the ball for my brother. I learned to bat by watching him from behind the nets. Actually, I'm a righty. But because my brother was a lefty, I learnt left-handed batting from him because I'd just stand behind the net and observe him. I think that's how I started playing cricket," she added.

My parents gave me complete freedom: Mandhana

The Big B then asked the 27-year-old cricketer about the challenges she had faced over the years. Mandhana has given all credit to her parents, stating they have backed her from the beginning of her career.

"You must have faced many challenges with regard to the sport. How did you overcome them? What kind of challenges were they?" he asked.

"Sir, when I began playing women's cricket, I mostly had to practice with boys - because not too many girls played cricket back then. So, I think... But I wish to give the credit to my parents. They didn't let any of this get to me. They gave me complete freedom," she said.

"Wow! That's lovely. Congratulations to both of you. These are modern views. Women deserve equal predominance and opportunities as their male counterparts," the 81-year-old added.

"My parents were taunted by the people - 'If she gets tanned, no one will marry her.' But the best thing was, they never let me bear the brunt. They allowed me to play." Amitabh concluded by saying, "That's just wonderful."