Celebrating Smriti Mandhana: Five Career Highlights of India's Star Cricketer

From WPL Triumph to Historic Centuries, Smriti Mandhana Shines Bright

Indian women's cricket star Smriti Mandhana has become renowned for her effortless batting style and her ability to perform under pressure since making her international debut in 2013. Over her 11-year-long career, she has amassed numerous individual and team accolades. Here, we take a look at five of the most impressive feats in Smriti Mandhana’s illustrious career.

WPL 2024 Triumph

Smriti Mandhana led the Royal Challengers Bengaluru to their maiden Women’s Premier League (WPL) crown earlier this year in an epic final against the Delhi Capitals. Overcoming a do-or-die situation in the group stage, Bengaluru defeated the Mumbai Indians in the playoff to secure a spot in the ultimate game. Smriti played a crucial 31-run knock in the final, leading Bengaluru to an eight-wicket victory over back-to-back finalists Delhi.

Second Cricketer to Win Two ICC Women’s Cricketer of The Year Awards

Smriti Mandhana’s impeccable form in 2021 earned her the Rachel Heyhoe-Flint Award, popularly known as the ICC Women’s Cricketer of The Year Award, for the second time. She had previously won this prestigious award in 2018, joining Australian star Ellyse Perry in the elite club of cricketers who have won this award twice. Recently, England’s Nat Sciver-Brunt also joined this club with consecutive triumphs in 2022 and 2023.

First Indian Woman to Score an ODI and Test Century in Australia

Smriti Mandhana recorded her maiden ODI century in 2016, smashing 102 runs off 109 balls against Australia in Hobart. Nearly five years later, she scored 127 runs from 216 balls in the historic Pink Ball Test in Australia. Her incredible haul included 22 boundaries and one six. Smriti’s century in Gold Coast in 2021 made her the first Indian female cricketer to record an ODI and Test century on Australian soil.

First Cricketer to Score 10 Consecutive 50-Plus Scores While Chasing in ODI Cricket

Over the years, Smriti Mandhana has established herself as one of the most consistent women’s cricketers in the world. She reached a different level in 2021, notching 10 consecutive 50-plus scores in ODI cricket while chasing. She made history after scoring her 18th half-century in the format in Lucknow against South Africa.

Asian Games 2023 Gold

Smriti Mandhana led India to a gold finish at the Asian Games held last year. She played a crucial 46-run knock in the final, helping India put up a total of 116 while batting first. Her individual tally made all the difference as India edged past Sri Lanka by 19 runs to win the gold medal in the women’s cricket event in Hangzhou, China.

Smriti Mandhana’s career achievements continue to inspire cricket fans around the world. Here's to many more years of her exceptional contributions to the sport.

Reference:

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