Smriti Mandhana’s century in 70 balls is one of the trending topic in Indian Cricket. She Scored 135 runs in 80 balls.
She became the first women cricketer to score the fastest century in the One Day International Cricket.
Smriti Mandhana, the epitome of grace and power in Indian cricket, has once again proven why she is considered one of the most dynamic batters in the world. Today, in a thrilling display of skill and composure, Mandhana scored a century that not only added to her illustrious career but also served as a defining moment in Indian women’s cricket. Her century was a masterclass in precision, timing, and sheer determination, leaving fans and cricket pundits in awe.
This article delves into Smriti Mandhana’s journey, the significance of her century, and the broader impact she continues to have on the sport.
The Journey of a Cricketing Prodigy
Born on July 18, 1996, in Mumbai and raised in Sangli, Maharashtra, Smriti Mandhana’s cricketing journey was inspired by her family’s deep-rooted passion for the sport. Her father, a former district-level cricketer, and her brother, who played at the state level, laid the foundation for her cricketing dreams.
Mandhana first captured the nation’s attention at the age of 17, when she became the first Indian woman to score a double century in a one-day game. Her unbeaten 224 off 150 balls for Maharashtra against Gujarat in 2013 showcased her prodigious talent and hinted at the greatness that lay ahead.
A Rising Star in International Cricket
Mandhana’s international debut came in April 2013 against Bangladesh in a T20I, but her rise to prominence was solidified during the 2017 ICC Women’s World Cup. Her innings of 90 against England and a scintillating 106 against West Indies were instrumental in India’s journey to the final. These performances not only demonstrated her ability to thrive on the big stage but also made her a household name in Indian cricket.
Her elegant left-handed batting, characterized by impeccable timing and stylish cover drives, drew comparisons to legends like Sourav Ganguly and Kumar Sangakkara. Over the years, Mandhana has evolved into a consistent performer across all formats of the game, amassing runs with remarkable ease.
The Century That Stunned the Cricketing World
A Knock to Remember
In today’s match, Smriti Mandhana played one of the most memorable innings of her career. Facing a formidable opponent, she showcased her class by scoring a century off just 87 balls. Her knock, laced with 14 boundaries and 3 sixes, was a perfect blend of aggression and technique.
Mandhana started cautiously, assessing the pitch and conditions before gradually shifting gears. Her ability to find gaps with precision and rotate the strike kept the scoreboard ticking, while her power-hitting in the latter half of the innings enthralled the crowd. This century, her 10th in ODIs, reinforced her reputation as a match-winner for India.
Breaking Records
Mandhana’s century came with several records:
- She became the fastest Indian woman to reach 4,500 ODI runs, achieving the milestone in just 123 innings.
- Her strike rate of 114 during the innings was one of the highest in her career for an ODI century.
- With this century, she surpassed Mithali Raj’s record for the most ODI hundreds by an Indian woman in a calendar year.
The Art of Batting: Mandhana’s Unique Style
Smriti Mandhana’s batting is a study in contrasts—her fluid strokes and graceful movements juxtaposed with the raw power she brings to her shots. Her ability to play the cover drive, often hailed as her signature shot, is a treat for cricket enthusiasts.
What sets her apart is her adaptability. Whether it’s negotiating swing and seam in England, countering spin in the subcontinent, or attacking short-pitched deliveries in Australia, Mandhana’s technique and mindset make her a versatile batter. Today’s century was a testament to her preparation and adaptability, as she skillfully navigated challenging conditions to anchor the innings.
Leadership and Legacy
Mandhana’s contributions extend beyond her batting exploits. As the vice-captain of the Indian team, she plays a crucial role in shaping the team’s strategy and mentoring young players. Her calm demeanor and ability to perform under pressure make her a natural leader.
In the absence of regular captain Harmanpreet Kaur, Mandhana has often taken on the captaincy role, leading the team with distinction. Her leadership during the 2024 Asia Cup, where India emerged victorious, was widely praised for its tactical brilliance and emphasis on teamwork.
The Impact of Today’s Century
Mandhana’s century today has far-reaching implications for Indian women’s cricket. It highlights her consistency and ability to perform on the big stage, inspiring her teammates and millions of aspiring cricketers.
Moreover, her performance underlines the growing prominence of women’s cricket in India. As stadiums fill up and viewership numbers soar, players like Mandhana are at the forefront of this transformation. Her innings today not only entertained but also reinforced the belief that women’s cricket can command the same level of attention and admiration as men’s cricket.
Off the Field: The Smriti Mandhana Brand
Off the field, Smriti Mandhana is a trailblazer in her own right. Her endorsements with global brands such as Nike, Hyundai, and Red Bull reflect her marketability and influence. She has become one of the highest-earning female athletes in India, using her platform to advocate for gender equality and promote cricket among young girls.
Mandhana’s social media presence, with millions of followers, allows her to connect directly with her fans. Whether sharing training routines, celebrating victories, or promoting social causes, she remains a role model for the younger generation.
Challenges and Triumphs
Despite her success, Mandhana’s journey has been filled with challenges. Injuries, dips in form, and the relentless demands of international cricket have tested her resilience. However, her ability to bounce back stronger has been a hallmark of her career.
One of her most challenging phases came during the 2022 tour of England, where she struggled against the moving ball. Critics questioned her technique and adaptability, but Mandhana used the experience as a learning curve, refining her game and returning to form with a string of match-winning performances.
The Road Ahead
At 28, Smriti Mandhana is at the peak of her powers, but her hunger for success remains undiminished. With the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup on the horizon, Mandhana’s form will be pivotal to India’s chances.
Beyond the immediate future, Mandhana’s aspirations include excelling in Test cricket, a format where opportunities are limited for women. Her goal of contributing to the growth of women’s cricket globally reflects her commitment to the sport.
Conclusion
Smriti Mandhana’s century today was more than just an individual milestone; it was a statement of intent and a celebration of her unwavering dedication to cricket. Her journey from a young girl in Sangli to one of the most recognizable faces in world cricket is a testament to her hard work, talent, and perseverance.
As Mandhana continues to shatter records and break barriers, she remains a beacon of hope and inspiration for millions. Her legacy is not just defined by the runs she scores but by the impact she has on the game and the lives she touches.
In the words of a commentator during today’s match, “Smriti Mandhana isn’t just batting; she’s painting a masterpiece on the canvas of cricket.” The world eagerly awaits the next chapter in her extraordinary story.