Smriti Mandhana launches girls’ cricket academy at Suchitra Academy

Smriti Mandhana launched the Girls Cricket Academy at Suchitra Academy in Hyderabad, praising the initiative as a platform for young women cricketers, while urging players to enjoy the journey and remain humble

Hyderabad: One of India’s finest women cricketers, Smriti Mandhana, formally launched the Girls Cricket Academy and Pickleball Court at Suchitra Academy in collaboration with Suchitra Badminton Academy here on Saturday.

Suchitra Academy co-founders Pradeep Raju and Praveen Raju, who have been instrumental in nurturing athletes across multiple sports and helping them achieve their dreams from the grassroots level, said the Girls Academy would be a trendsetter for excellence in women’s cricket as the best young talent would be groomed under the mentorship of expert coaches.

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Praveen Raju, Founder of Suchitra Academy and Co-Founder of Suchitra Badminton Academy, described the day as “a very special one” in the institution’s journey.
“Cricket is more than a game in India — it is a way of life. For too long, this spotlight has rested mainly on men. But today, we made a strong statement. Our girls deserve the same opportunities, the same recognition, and the same platform to excel. This academy is our commitment to that vision,” Praveen said.

Smriti Mandhana appreciated the efforts of Suchitra Academy to set up the girls’ cricket academy and recalled that while growing up, she always wished her school had a girls’ cricket team.

“That’s why I’m so happy today to see Suchitra launch girls’ cricket at such a professional level. You are truly fortunate to have leaders like Pradeep Sir and Praveen Sir, who are committed to your growth,” Smriti said.

The India opener also recalled the early days of coaching under her mentor Shrikant, saying it wasn’t enjoyable then, but looking back, it transformed her game.
Smriti advised young talent to enjoy the journey, find joy in practice and discipline, and not focus solely on results.

“Most importantly, be a good human being, stay humble, kind and honest because life has a way of making everything else fall into place,” she said.