Smriti Mandhana Shatters Records with Fastest ODI Century by an Indian Woman
In a dazzling display of skill and determination, Smriti Mandhana, the captain of the Indian women’s cricket team, delivered a remarkable performance during the third One Day International (ODI) against Ireland at Rajkot’s Niranjan Shah Stadium. Her explosive century not only showcased her exceptional talent but also set a new benchmark in women’s cricket.
A Historic Milestone: The Fastest Century
Mandhana’s innings was nothing short of spectacular as she reached her hundred in just 70 balls, breaking the previous record held by Harmanpreet Kaur, who scored her century in 87 balls against South Africa. This achievement marks Mandhana’s tenth ODI century and places her alongside England’s Tammy Beaumont for the third-most centuries in women’s ODIs. The record is led by Australian star Meg Lanning with 15 centuries, followed closely by New Zealand’s Suzie Bates with 13.
Record-Breaking Performance
The match saw Mandhana and her opening partner Pratika Rawal form an impressive partnership that amassed 233 runs for the first wicket. Their relentless batting left Ireland’s bowlers struggling to find answers throughout their innings. Mandhana celebrated reaching her milestone with grace; after hitting a quick two off Arlene Kelly in the 24th over, she was met with thunderous applause from an enthusiastic crowd.
Statistics That Speak Volumes
Mandhana concluded her innings at an impressive score of 135 runs off just 80 deliveries, which included seven sixes and twelve fours—a testament to her aggressive batting style. Orla Prendergast eventually claimed her wicket when Ava Canning caught a straightforward catch at short fine leg during the 27th over.
Here are some notable statistics regarding fastest hundreds scored by Indian women in ODIs:
- 70 balls: Smriti Mandhana vs IRE-W (Rajkot, 2025)
- 87 balls: Harmanpreet Kaur vs SA-W (Bengaluru, 2024)
- 90 balls: Harmanpreet Kaur vs AUS-W (Derby, 2017)
- 90 balls: Jemimah Rodrigues vs IRE-W (Rajkot, 2025)
- 98 balls: Harleen Deol vs WI-W (Vadodara, 2024)
Dominance on Display
India entered this match leading the three-match series with two victories already under their belt. By opting to bat first on favorable conditions for batting proved advantageous as they capitalized effectively on every opportunity presented to them.
The team made strategic changes ahead of this game; Tanuja Kanwar and Minnu Mani replaced Saima Thakor and Priya Mishra respectively while Ireland maintained their unchanged lineup but struggled significantly against India’s formidable attack.
Mandhana’s outstanding performance further cements her reputation as one of cricket’s elite players within women’s sports today—her ability to perform under pressure continues to inspire many aspiring cricketers around the globe.
Top Partnerships: A Testament to Teamwork
The partnership between Smriti Mandhana and Pratika Rawal stands out not only for its run total but also because it ranks among India Women’s highest partnerships ever recorded:
- 320 runs: Punam Raut & Deepti Sharma vs IRE-W (Potchefstroom, 2017)
- 258* runs: Mithali Raj & Reshma Gandhi vs IRE-W (Milton Keynes,1999)
- 233 runs: Smriti Mandhana & Pratika Rawal vs IRE-W (Rajkot ,2025)
This collaboration exemplifies how teamwork can lead to extraordinary achievements on such significant platforms like international matches.
As we reflect upon this historic moment for Indian women’s cricket through Smriti Mandhana’s incredible feat—it’s clear that she has not only broken records but has also paved new paths for future generations aiming high within this sport.