Harmanpreet, Mandhana, Divya among nominees for 2025 BBC Indian Sportswoman Award

India’s leading women athletes across cricket, chess, shooting and athletics have been shortlisted for the 2025 BBC Indian Sportswoman of the Year Award , recognising a year of outstanding performances on the global stage.

At the centre is Harmanpreet Kaur , who captained India to its maiden ICC Women’s World Cup title , delivering crucial runs and calm leadership in high-pressure matches. Her deputy Smriti Mandhana continued her rich form, smashing a record 50-ball century and remaining one of the most consistent run-scorers in international cricket.

In chess, Divya Deshmukh scripted history by becoming the first Indian and youngest-ever FIDE Women’s World Cup champion , earning the prestigious grandmaster title at just 20. Shooter Suruchi Singh impressed with multiple ISSF World Cup gold medals to climb to world No. 1 in the 10m air pistol rankings , while hurdler Jyothi Yarraji strengthened her reputation by qualifying for the Olympics and repeatedly breaking national records in the 100m hurdles.

Selected by an expert jury, the nominees reflect the growing strength of Indian women’s sport, inspiring the next generation with their achievements. Last year’s award was won by shooter Manu Bhaker , who made history at the Paris 2024 Olympics with two bronze medals, highlighting the rising dominance of Indian women on the global stage.