Mandhana honored with one-of-a-kind Barbie doll ahead of International Women’s Day

indian cricketer Mandana has been named to 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.Toymaker Mattel is combining the recognition with International Women’s Day, which is celebrated annually on March 8. The company says the event honors women who are breaking barriers in their fields. Doll was created in MandalaThe portrait is specially designed to celebrate her achievements and will not be available for retail sale.Mandhana joins the dream team along with several global celebrities. The list includes tennis superstar Serena Williams, astronaut Kelly Gerardi, race car driver Regina Servent Alvarado, England footballer Chloe Kelly, singer Helen Fisher, mountaineer Zoya Scoobis and surfer Stephanie Gilmore.“The dream is real and we have the team to prove it,” Mattel said in a statement when it unveiled the plans. “Ahead of International Women’s Day, Barbie is proud to announce our first-ever Barbie Dream Team, honoring eight women from around the world who have achieved groundbreaking firsts in their chosen paths, lighting the way for generations of girls to come.”Mandana later shared a photo of her personalized Barbie doll on Instagram, admitting the moment still felt surreal.“Still thinking about 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 in this field, it means everything. It’s an honor to be part of the Barbie Dream Team, alongside incredible women from around the world who are breaking barriers in their fields.” When girls see that anything is possible, they dream bigger. “Mandhana said.Mandana currently serves as India’s vice-captain across all formats and is widely regarded as one of the most reliable batsmen of the Indian team. She recently regained the number one position in the ICC ODI batting rankings. She also led Royal Challengers Bangalore to their second Women’s Super League title earlier this year. In the prime of her career, Mandana continues to shine both on and off the court.