Indian cricketer Smriti Mandhana has been named in Barbie’s first-ever Dream Team, becoming the first cricketer in the world to receive a one-of-a-kind Barbie doll inspired by her journey. The announcement was made on Thursday, March 5.Toy manufacturer Mattel aligned the recognition with International Women’s Day, which is observed every year on March 8. According to the company, the initiative aims to honour women who have broken barriers in their respective fields. The doll created in Mandhana’s likeness has been specially designed to celebrate her achievements and will not be available for retail sale.Mandhana features in the Dream Team alongside several prominent global personalities. The list includes tennis great Serena Williams, astronaut Kellie Gerardi, racing driver Regina Sirvent Alvarado, England footballer Chloe Kelly, singer Helene Fischer, climber Zoja Skubis and surfer Stephanie Gilmore.“The dream is real and we have the team to prove it,” Mattel said in a statement while unveiling the initiative. “Ahead of International Women’s Day, Barbie is proud to announce our first-ever Barbie Dream Team, honouring eight women from across the globe who have led the way for future generations of girls by accomplishing breakthrough firsts in their chosen paths.”Mandhana later shared pictures of her personalised Barbie doll on Instagram, admitting that the moment still feels surreal.“Still processing this moment… Seeing a one-of-a-kind @Barbie doll inspired by my journey is something I never imagined growing up. Cricket has given me so much, and if my story helps even one girl believe she belongs on the field, that means everything. Honored to be part of Barbie’s Dream Team alongside incredible women from around the world who are breaking barriers in their own fields. When girls see what’s possible, they dream bigger,” Mandhana said.Mandhana currently serves as India’s vice-captain across formats and is widely regarded as one of the side’s most dependable batters. She recently climbed back to the No. 1 position in the ICC ODI batting rankings. Earlier this year, she also captained Royal Challengers Bengaluru to their second title in the Women’s Premier League. At the peak of her career, Mandhana continues to shine both on and off the field.
