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In an unexpected and exciting crossover of sports, Indian women’s hockey team goalkeeper Savita Punia taught the basics of hockey to renowned Indian cricketer Smriti Mandhana. This unique interaction occurred on the show “Sports Swap,” hosted by Jio Cinema, where athletes from different sports explore and learn each other’s games.
Smriti Mandhana Takes Hockey Lessons from Savita Punia
The episode featured an engaging exchange of skills and experiences between the two celebrated athletes. Savita Punia introduced Smriti Mandhana to the fundamentals of hockey, challenging the seasoned left-handed batter to adapt to the right-handed grip necessary for handling a hockey stick. Despite her initial struggles, Mandhana embraced the challenge with enthusiasm and curiosity.
During their session, Mandhana took a moment to congratulate Savita Punia on being named the FIH Goalkeeper of the Year, an honor she received in December 2023. The camaraderie and mutual respect between the two athletes were evident as they shared stories and insights from their respective sports.
Their paths had previously crossed during the Asian Games 2023 in Hangzhou, China. Savita Punia played a pivotal role in securing a bronze medal for the Indian hockey team, while Smriti Mandhana was instrumental in leading the Indian cricket team to a gold medal victory. This shared history added depth to their interaction on “Sports Swap,” showcasing the unity and support among India’s top athletes across different sports disciplines.
