Smriti Mandhana is in the form of her life, delivering one stellar performance after another in the ongoing ODI series against Ireland. After scoring a solid 41 in the first match and a match-winning 73 in the second to seal the series, Mandhana took things to another level on Wednesday by smashing her 10th ODI century, further cementing India’s dominance.
With this milestone, Mandhana became the first Indian woman to hit double-digit centuries in ODIs. Her 70-ball hundred is now the fastest ever by an Indian Women’s player, breaking the previous record set by Harmanpreet Kaur, who scored a century off 87 balls against South Africa.
Mandhana’s century also saw her surpass England’s Nat Sciver-Brunt, who was tied with her at nine ODI centuries. This feat puts Mandhana closer to the all-time record for most ODI centuries in women’s cricket, held by Australian legend Meg Lanning, who has 15. Mandhana now needs just six more to overtake Lanning’s record.
Controversy erupts over Yashasvi Jaiswal’s caught-behind dismissal
Mandhana’s Masterclass Against Ireland
Playing on a flat track at the Saurashtra Cricket Stadium, Mandhana was in commanding form from the very first ball. She took on the Irish bowlers with remarkable intent, delivering a clinical performance that showcased her class and aggression. Once she crossed her half-century, Mandhana shifted gears, launching a barrage of boundaries and sixes to reach her hundred in just 70 balls.
Her innings was a blend of elegance and brute force, leaving the Irish bowlers with no answers. It was a display of pure dominance and a testament to why she’s considered one of the finest batters in women’s cricket.
