Smriti Mandhana’s dream run at the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 reached a fairytale climax as India lifted their maiden title in front of a jubilant home crowd. Adding to the emotional celebration was her boyfriend, renowned Indian musician Palash Muchhal, who stood by her side during the iconic moment — a sight that melted hearts across the nation.
Soon after India’s emphatic 52-run victory over South Africa in the final at DY Patil Stadium, Palash took to social media to share a heartfelt post featuring Mandhana beaming with pride and raising her arms in celebration while he proudly held the World Cup trophy. His caption, “Sabse aage hai hum Hindustani” (“We Indians are ahead of everyone”), perfectly captured the pride and emotion of the historic moment.
However, it wasn’t just the post that grabbed attention — fans were quick to spot a tattoo on Palash’s arm that read ‘SM18’, representing Smriti Mandhana’s initials and jersey number. The gesture instantly went viral, symbolising his unwavering love and admiration for the star cricketer. Social media was abuzz with admiration for the couple, with fans calling Palash’s gesture the “sweetest form of support.”
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One fan wrote, “Men hyping their women is the best genre,” while another commented, “The tattoo, the man, and the trophy — she got everything!” Another simply said, “That tattoo stole my heart.”
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The couple, who reportedly plan to tie the knot later this November in Mandhana’s hometown of Sangli, have become one of India’s most adored power pairs — blending the worlds of cricket and music seamlessly.
On the field, Mandhana was the heartbeat of India’s campaign. After missing the early games due to a niggle, she stormed back with sublime innings of 80, 88, and 109 against Australia, England, and New Zealand. Her composed 45 off 58 in the final, along with a 104-run opening stand with Shafali Verma, laid the foundation for India’s commanding total of 298/7.
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Mandhana finished as the second-highest run-scorer of the tournament with 434 runs in nine innings, cementing her status as one of modern cricket’s brightest stars.
Reflecting on the emotional triumph, she said, “It’s still sinking in. To win a World Cup at home is beyond words. Every heartbreak in the past feels worth it now. This moment belongs to every Indian who believed in us.”
