Why Smriti Mandhana is Not Playing India vs Sri Lanka 5th T20I
Cricket fans were surprised to see Smriti Mandhana, one of India’s most prolific batters, missing from the playing XI in the fifth and final T20I against Sri Lanka Women at Thiruvananthapuram. With India already leading the series 4-0, this decision drew widespread attention.
Strategic Rest or Rotation Policy?
Mandhana was rested for the dead-rubber encounter, as part of India’s broader rotation and workload management strategy. The team management often uses such opportunities to give rest to senior players while experimenting with younger talents.
Resting Key Players for Future Tournaments
Since India had already sealed the series, resting players like Mandhana serves several purposes:
- Preventing fatigue ahead of major events like the Women’s T20 World Cup
- Avoiding potential injuries from a packed schedule
- Giving exposure to bench players in international conditions
In this match, G. Kamalini made her T20I debut, while other squad adjustments were also made.
Mandhana’s Form in the Series
Mandhana had made significant contributions in earlier games, showcasing her skills and helping India dominate the series. Her performance underlined why she is considered one of the top batters in women’s T20 cricket.
Implications for India’s Future
Resting senior players like Mandhana is part of India’s long-term planning. It allows the team to maintain player fitness, test new talents, and ensure readiness for high-stakes tournaments. While fans may miss seeing her on the field, this is a strategic move to safeguard the team’s performance in future competitions.
Conclusion
Smriti Mandhana’s absence in the 5th T20I was not due to injury or poor form but rather a conscious decision by the Indian team management. It highlights the importance of rotation policies and strategic player management in modern cricket.
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