Smriti Mandhana joins Rado as Friend of the Brand
RADO SIGNS CRICKET STAR SMRITI MANDHANA AS A FRIEND OF THE BRAND
Rado has named cricketing sensation Smriti Mandhana as its newest Friend of the Brand, in a move that reinforces its close connections to the sport. As one of the most dynamic talents in world cricket – and the undisputed face of Indian women’s cricket – Smriti combines exceptional performance with a cultural influence that extends far beyond the pitch. Her fearless energy, elegance and confidence make her a perfect match for Rado’s innovative and expressive design philosophy.
Smriti recently joined the brand in Switzerland for its 40-year celebrations dedicated to high-tech ceramic, wearing the Rado True Square Open Heart. With its open-worked dial, sculptural geometry and high-tech ceramic case, the watch reflects her unique balance of power and finesse – revealing its inner strength as boldly as she does. The timepiece will accompany her throughout the partnership, symbolising the harmony between her game and Rado’s unmistakable aesthetic.
Rado x cricket: a material match
Smriti’s outstanding talent and pioneering spirit exemplify the brand’s passion for reinvention – which defines its approach to watchmaking. “Rado continually sets new standards and surpasses all expectations,” she said. “That’s exactly how I approach cricket – and life in general. Becoming a Friend of the Brand feels like a natural partnership.
She joins an impressive line-up of Rado cricketing collaborators who, like Smriti, embody power, precision and the courage to push boundaries. South African fast bowler Kagiso Rabada was recently announced as a Global Brand Ambassador, alongside Australian all-rounder Cameron Green.
The new partnership reinforces Rado’s commitment to cricket – two worlds driven by performance, timing and resilience, and united by an exacting approach to materials. In cricket, traditional bats made of willow and leather-covered balls sit alongside modern protective equipment. Rado is similarly inspired by the traditions of Swiss watchmaking but renowned for its forward-looking approach to materials, centred around its expertise in high-tech ceramic.
Sensational talent, cover star
In domestic cricket, Smriti continues to set the pace. As captain of Royal Challengers Bengaluru, she led the team to victory in India’s Women’s Premier League in the just-finished 2026 season, building on their earlier win in 2024. On the international stage, she is vice-captain of the Indian women’s national cricket team, reinforcing her leadership as one of the most influential players of her generation.
These accomplishments add to an extraordinary legacy already firmly established in world cricket. She was the highest scorer in the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) Women’s Cricket World Cup in 2025 and was named ICC One Day International Cricketer of the Year in 2024. These honours build on earlier global recognition as ICC Women’s Cricketer of the Year, in both 2021 and 2018.
Throughout her journey, Smriti has shattered multiple records, including the fastest century by an Indian player in Women’s One Day Internationals; the most centuries in a single calendar year (five) in women’s ODIs, and both the fastest and youngest player to reach 10,000 runs in women’s international cricket. Her achievements place her firmly among the most accomplished athletes of her era.
A cultural powerhouse
Off the pitch, Smriti is one of the most recognizable athletes in the world and a cultural icon in India.She has a huge following across social media platforms, and is among the most influential female athletes in the country. She is regularly a magazine cover star, having featured on Indian editions of Vogue, Forbes, Cosmopolitan and Harper’s Bazaar, and has earned a name for blending sportswear and high fashion.
Adrian Bosshard, Rado’s CEO, said: “Smriti is a dynamic modern Indian icon. Through her talent, dedication and self-confidence, she has transformed her dreams into reality. Her influence extends far beyond the cricket field, and she stands as a remarkable example to young women everywhere. At Rado we feel a strong connection to her drive and ambition, and look forward to accompanying her on the next steps of her journey.”