A few glimpses into women’s cricket are encouraging Smriti Mandhana all in India. The flamboyant left-hander was the star performer in India’s historic Test win at Lord’s, scoring two centuries to help England to a memorable victory. In an interview with TOI, the 29-year-old spoke about India’s huge success at Lord’s, lessons from repeated T20 World Cup disappointments, the impact of the WPL, and why he feels ready to captain India if the opportunity arises. Sections…What did it mean to be a part of India’s first women’s Test at Lord’s and contribute so much to its success?It was amazing to be part of the first women’s Test at Lord’s and, most importantly, to win. The contribution to India’s historic victory was exceptional. As kids, we all dream of playing Test cricket, so to do it at Lord’s will make it a memorable one.Yastika Bhatia He thanked you for helping him recover from ACL surgery. What did you tell him?Any knee injury can be very difficult for a football player. In Yastika’s case, it was already the home World Cup, which made it tough. I told him how my ACL injury in 2017 helped me grow as a person and as an athlete. Some of my best cricket came after coming back. I saw that they connected with this and remained motivated through the rehabilitation process.Why do you think India pulled out of the T20 World Cup early?It is important to monitor myself and learn from mistakes. Unfortunately, we have not learned enough from our past mistakes and continue to repeat them. Going forward, there needs to be a clear strategy until the 2028 T20 World Cup of how we want to look and what we need to do as a team.There has been speculation about a change in captaincy. Are you ready to lead India when asked?Yes of course. I am ready.Four months into the WPL, India’s T20 results have not gone well. Has the league produced enough Indian talent?I think the WPL has produced new talent and several players have made it to the national team. However, I feel that they have not used their skills properly.You have led RCB to consecutive WPL titles. What is your leadership philosophy?For me, creating a good team culture is very important. Every player should feel free to express themselves. When people feel valued and trusted, they tend to do better.You have been consistently delivering in the big leagues. Do big events bring out the best in you?It has been a work in progress. Over the past few years, I have been very focused on my cricket, whether it is a major tournament or a doubles game. That calmness has helped me focus on my team work.As a first-time veteran of India, do you feel overwhelmed by the expectations?We have some very good batsmen in this team. Whenever you pack for India, there is pressure to help your team win. But I enjoy it. After all, what’s the point of playing sports if there’s no pressure?What has ICC chairman Jay Shah done for the development of women’s cricket?Jay sir has been instrumental in the development of women’s cricket, not only in India but globally.