Palash Muchhal, music composer and fiancé of Indian cricketer Smriti Mandhana, has captured widespread attention on social media after revealing a tattoo reading “SM18” on his left arm. The tribute to Mandhana, featuring her initials and jersey number, surfaced following India’s historic Women’s ODI World Cup victory over South Africa on Sunday.
Viral Moment Captivates Fans
A photograph showing Palash holding the World Cup trophy alongside Smriti, both radiating joy, quickly went viral across social media platforms. Fans celebrated not only India’s triumph but also the couple’s relationship, with many describing the tattoo as the “best pre-wedding gift” and commending Palash for publicly honouring his fiancée’s achievements.
I hate you for not posting solo photos with trophy @mandhana_smriti pic.twitter.com/lX9EGw6oeA
— Crosswork11 (WORLD CUP CHAMPION SMRITI'S STAN ) (@Crosswork11) November 3, 2025
The couple, who began their relationship in 2019 but kept it private until 2024, are scheduled to marry this November. The “SM18” tattoo has resonated with fans as a symbol of devotion, adding a romantic dimension to India’s cricketing success.
Mandhana’s Stellar World Cup Performance
Smriti Mandhana emerged as India’s batting cornerstone during the tournament, accumulating 434 runs at an impressive average of 54.25. Her performance included one century and two half-centuries, making her the team’s highest run-scorer and the tournament’s second-leading run-getter behind South Africa’s Laura Wolvaardt.
The left-handed opener’s standout innings came against New Zealand in Navi Mumbai, where she scored 109 runs. Prior to that century, Mandhana demonstrated her ability against top-tier opposition with consecutive scores of 80 and 88 against Australia and England respectively, showcasing remarkable consistency throughout the competition.
Recognition and Honors
Mandhana’s exceptional performances earned her selection in the ICC’s Team of the World Cup 2025, alongside Indian teammates Jemimah Rodrigues and Deepti Sharma. Her reliability at the top of the batting order proved instrumental in India’s championship campaign.
The combination of India’s World Cup victory and Palash’s public gesture of affection has created a heartwarming narrative that extends beyond cricket, celebrating both sporting excellence and personal commitment as the couple prepares for their upcoming wedding.
