Smriti Mandhana Shatters Records with Fiery Century in Women’s World Cup 2025
In a groundbreaking moment for Indian cricket, Smriti Mandhana exploded onto the scene with a dynamic innings of 109 runs off just 95 balls against New Zealand during the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025. Played in Navi Mumbai, this match wasn’t just another game; it was a showcase of Mandhana’s grit, talent, and strategic prowess, marking India’s first century of the tournament.
Historic Performance
Mandhana, India’s Vice-Captain and a potent force in women’s cricket, dazzled spectators with her powerful strokes, racking up ten boundaries and four sixes. This impressive performance didn’t just help India exceed the 200-run mark in a must-win match; it acted as a catalyst for the team’s journey into the semifinals.
As she partnered with Pratika Rawal, who also hit her own century to equal the stakes, Mandhana’s innings set a formidable rhythm for the Indian lineup. Even as she was eventually caught out by Hannah Rowe, her impact on the game was undeniable, tying the team’s scoring while maintaining an aggressive strike rate that left opponents scrambling.
A Record in the Making
Mandhana’s century did more than clinch a win for India; it etched her name in the record books. With this latest milestone, she now shares the record for the most hundreds in women’s international cricket—17, alongside Australian legend Meg Lanning. In One Day Internationals, Mandhana has hit 14 centuries, tantalizingly close to Lanning’s record of 15. This elevates Mandhana not just as a player, but as an iconic figure in women’s cricket, inspiring countless aspiring athletes.
Looking Ahead
With the likes of Harleen Deol, Harmanpreet Kaur, Deepti Sharma, and Richa Ghosh still in the wings, India’s batting lineup remains robust and exciting. As Mandhana’s performance captivates both fans and critics alike, one wonders how this momentum will influence their journey in the tournament and beyond.
Final Thoughts
Smriti Mandhana’s stunning knock is more than a personal triumph—it’s a testament to the growing strength of women’s cricket in India. Fans celebrated not just a victory, but a historical moment that emphasizes the evolution of the sport, challenging norms and reshaping the narrative around Indian cricket.
Will Mandhana continue to break barriers and inspire future generations? Only time will tell, but one thing is for certain: she has already made her mark in cricket history.
