Smriti Mandhana-Palash Muchhal Wedding Called Off, Cricketer Confirms In Emotional Note: 'Would Like To Close This Matter'

Smriti Mandhana has finally broken her silence amid the ongoing chaos regarding her wedding. She has confirmed that her marriage to composer Palash Muchhal has been called off as the star Indian batter shared a note on social media on Sunday.

Mandhana's statement came after weeks of spotlight and speculation. Bringing an abrupt end to a relationship with Palash, the Indian vice-captain requested privacy as she navigates the situation, emphasising her desire to move forward quietly. Notably, Smriti and Palash were set to tie the knot on November 23, but the ceremony was reportedly postponed after the cricketer's father fell ill and was admitted to the hospital. While there were rumours all around, Smriti deleted all wedding-related posts from her social media accounts.

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"Over the past few weeks, there has been plenty of speculation around my life, and I feel it is important for me to speak out at this time. I am a very private person, and I would like to keep it that way, but I need to clarify that the wedding is called off," Mandhana wrote on a note shared on Instagram.

"I would like to close this matter here and implore all of you to do the same. I request you to please respect the privacy of both families at this time and allow us the space to process and move on at our own pace," she added.

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Mandhana, who played a major role in helping India win their maiden Women's World Cup just a month ago, also highlighted her dedication to cricket and her goal to represent the national team at the highest level. "I believe there is a higher purpose driving us all, and for me, that has always been representing my country at the highest level. I hope to continue to play and win trophies for India for as long as possible, and that is where my focus will forever be. Thank you for all your support. It's time to move forward," she posted on Instagram.

Soon after Mandhana's post, Palash Muchhal issued his own statement, confirming that he had "decided to move on" and expressing anguish over what he described as baseless online chatter.

"I have decided to move on in my life and step back from my personal relationship. It's been very difficult for me to see people react so easily on baseless rumours about something which has been most sacred to me. It's the most difficult phase of my life, and I will deal with it gracefully, holding on to my beliefs," he wrote.

He urged the public to reflect before amplifying unverified claims. "I truly hope we, as a society, learn to pause before judging someone based on unverified gossip, whose sources are never identified. Our words can wound in ways we may never understand," he added.