Indian women batter Smriti Mandhana on Monday (7th March) hailed Bismah Maroof for returning to play six months after giving birth to a baby girl. She feels that Pakistan skipper set an example for sportswomen across the world.
Indian women started their ICC Women’s World Cup 2022 campaign on a high note. The Mithali Raj-led side crushed arch-rivals Pakistan by 107 to gain important two points.
Not only with their performance, but Indian women also won the hearts of many fans and pundits when they were seen having a joyous moment with Bismah Maroof’s daughter Fatima.
Read Also: WATCH - Indian players show affection towards Pakistan captain Bismah Maroof's adorable baby girl
The pictures and videos of the incident went viral on social media, which was flooded with reactions, and the Mithali Raj-led side drew rich praises for their gesture.
Mandhana, who also had a light moment with baby Fatima, took to her Instagram account and lauded Pakistan skipper Bismah Maroof for setting an example for sportswomen across the globe. She sent her love to her daughter and hoped she’ll become a cricketer like her mother.
“Coming back post pregnancy in 6 months and playing international cricket is so inspiring. @bismahmaroof setting an example for sportswomen across the globe. Lots of love to baby Fatima from India and I hope she picks the bat just like you bcoz lefties are special?” Smriti Mandhana said.
Notably, Bismah Maroof was allowed to travel to New Zealand with her 6-month old daughter along with her mother, who accompanied her as Fatima’s carer. As per the rules in PCB, the mother is allowed to travel with a support person of her choice to assist in caring for her infant child.
India women will be next face hosts New Zealand on 10th March followed by West Indies on 12th Match at Seddon Park, Hamilton. After that will return to Bay Oval, Tauranga to face defending champions England on 16th March.
They will then shift bases to Eden Park, Auckland to face Australia on 19th March followed by the match against Bangladesh at Hamilton on 22nd March. The Indian team will play their last league match against South Africa on 27th Match at Christchurch.
(PTI inputs)
