It was a double celebration for Indian cricket fans on July 18 as two of the country's left-handed batters, Smriti Mandhana and Ishan Kishan, celebrated their birthdays.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) extended wishes to both players on social media, and fans from across the globe joined in.
Follow The Sporting News India on WhatsApp
Let's see the messages from BCCI to these Indian southpaws.
How did BCCI wish Smriti Mandhana on her birthday?
Mandhana turned 29 in 2025, and BCCI took to the social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to post a special birthday greeting highlighting her achievements across formats.
2⃣6⃣3⃣ intl. matches
— BCCI Women (@BCCIWomen) July 18, 2025
9⃣1⃣1⃣2⃣ intl. runs
1⃣4⃣ intl. centuries
Most hundreds by an Indian in Women's ODIs 🫡
Here's wishing #TeamIndia vice-captain and one of the finest modern day batters - Smriti Mandhana, a very Happy Birthday 🎂👏@mandhana_smriti pic.twitter.com/OZqYCFzCmK
Mandhana’s career has gone far beyond just national duties. She's played in major T20 leagues like the WBBL and The Hundred, becoming one of the most recognisable faces in women’s cricket worldwide.
MORE: Rishabh Pant injury update: Is India wicket-keeper fit for IND vs ENG 4th Test at Old Trafford?
Supporters also reflected on her position as India’s all-time leading run-scorer in T20Is and expressed hope that she would lead India to glory in the upcoming ODI World Cup at home later this year.
BCCI wishes Ishan Kishan as India star turns 2
While Mandhana turned 29, Kishan, who was born in 1998 and turned 27, also celebrated his birthday on July 18. The BCCI shared a post for him as well.
Wishing a very Happy Birthday to #TeamIndia wicket-keeper batter, Ishan Kishan 🎂👏@ishankishan51 pic.twitter.com/OXUUpn5Cma
— BCCI (@BCCI) July 18, 2025
Kishan, who has earned praise for his aggressive batting style and ability to adapt to various roles, whether it’s opening in T20Is or keeping wickets in ODIs.
He also holds the record for the fastest double century in ODIs, achieving the feat in 126 balls against Bangladesh in 2022. Kishan finished that inning with 210 runs off 131 balls.
Kishan’s birthday was widely celebrated online, with fans posting clips of his explosive sixes and stylish shots. Many also expressed hope of seeing him back in India colours soon, especially with major white-ball tournaments around the corner.