Smriti Mandhana produced one of the greatest knocks in women’s ODI history. She scored a stunning 50-ball century against Australia in Delhi, the second-fastest in women’s ODIs. The milestone not only highlighted her class but also placed her among the all-time greats. This was her 13th hundred in the format, drawing level with Suzie Bates and only two behind Meg Lanning.
Australia, however, showed why they remain the most dominant side. They piled up 412 runs, equalling their record ODI total. Beth Mooney’s 138 led the way, and her 57-ball ton briefly became the second-fastest before Mandhana overtook it. The game turned into a festival of boundaries with 111 hits to the ropes, creating a new ODI record.
Despite Australia’s power, India responded bravely. They scored 369 in the chase, the highest successful pursuit attempt in women’s ODIs. Mandhana’s strike rate of 198.41 was the second-highest ever for a century-maker. Even in defeat, her knock stood out as a statement of intent. India now eyes greater success, with the Women’s World Cup dream becoming sharper.
How is Smriti Mandhana a Special Player for India?
Smriti Mandhana has consistently been India’s backbone in crucial matches. Her latest 50-ball century against Australia shows why she is rated so highly. It was not only about quick scoring, but also about timing, placement, and fearless intent. Few batters can combine elegance with such ruthless power.
Her 13 ODI hundreds now put her above every opener in history. Players like Suzie Bates and Tammy Beaumont have been consistent, yet Mandhana’s ability to deliver under pressure makes her stand out. She has now scored back-to-back centuries twice, something Beaumont alone has managed more often. This reflects her hunger and mental strength at the highest stage.
Mandhana also changes the mood in the dressing room. When she finds rhythm, others gain confidence. Her zen mode approach makes her calm during big chases. India’s 96 for 2 in the powerplay against Australia came largely due to her bold stroke play. Even though India lost, her knock showed the gap is closing with every game.
Mandhana’s Impact in Historical Context
Looking back, Mandhana has already created a legacy. She is closing in on Lanning’s record of 15 hundreds. With age on her side, surpassing that mark feels inevitable. Each ton she scores puts India closer to winning its first ICC title since the inaugural event in 1973. Her blend of style and consistency marks her as a true game-changer.
How is she the Stylish Batter Who Balances the Team
Smriti Mandhana is more than a run scorer. She is the stylish left-hander who gives balance to India’s lineup. The right-left combination at the top is crucial, and Mandhana ensures India begins with flair and intent. Her cover drives and lofted shots bring grace, while her strike rotation keeps pressure away from partners.
Against Australia, her strike rate of 198.41 was unmatched. Only Meg Lanning in 2012 has ever crossed a strike rate of 200 during a century. That puts Mandhana in rare company. Yet, her knock was not reckless. She built momentum smartly, pacing the chase while ensuring boundaries kept flowing. Such composure makes her irreplaceable in India’s plans.
Mandhana also gives India stability during collapses. If early wickets fall, her ability to counterattack shifts momentum back. This was seen in the Delhi ODI, where India still managed 369 chasing 413. Without her, the game could have ended as a one-sided loss. Instead, fans witnessed a thrilling contest filled with records.
Stylish Yet Effective Role in Team Dynamics
Stylish batting often gets tagged as risky, but Mandhana proves otherwise. She combines wristy strokes with clean power, bringing a modern approach. Her consistency ensures that style meets substance. For India, having such a player at the top means they can dream of greater success. Her batting is the bridge between hope and achievement.
Indian Women Plan to Win the First World Cup Since 1973?
India’s women’s team has long searched for a global breakthrough. Since the first Women’s ODI World Cup in 1973, they have reached finals but never lifted the trophy. Smriti Mandhana’s current form might be the missing piece. Her ability to dominate against the world’s best teams gives India real belief.
Australia has been the benchmark for decades. Their latest 412-run total shows the challenge India faces. Yet India’s chase of 369, the highest ever pursuit in women’s ODIs, proves they are closing the gap. Strong starts from Mandhana and support from the middle order make India a threat in big tournaments.
Coaches now focus on building depth in bowling and fielding. While Mandhana leads batting headlines, India knows wickets win finals. Arundhati Reddy’s expensive spell in Delhi was a reminder of the need for sharper plans. Balance across departments is the priority heading into the next World Cup cycle.
World Cup Dream Becoming Realistic
India’s dream is not just about one star player. The collective effort will define success. Yet Mandhana’s back-to-back centuries highlight a winning formula. If she continues to dominate, India could finally lift the trophy. The timeline of India’s rivalry, including battles with Bangladesh, also shows steady growth. Fans believe the wait since 1973 is nearing an end.
How does Australia match its Best Score of 412 against India?
Australia reaffirmed its dominance with a record-equalling 412 in Delhi. This total matched their previous high set in 1997, a game remembered for Belinda Clark’s unbeaten 229. Against India, Beth Mooney was the star, scoring a personal best 138. She struck boundaries with ease, reaching her hundred in just 57 balls.
The total was also the highest ever against India in women’s ODIs. Their aggressive intent was clear, targeting every bowler. Arundhati Reddy endured a tough day, conceding 86 runs at an economy of 9.73. Despite India’s fightback, Australia showed why they remain the top side. Their ninth consecutive series win proves their grip on the format.
The Delhi game also became the highest aggregate in women’s ODIs, with 781 runs. Fans saw 111 boundaries in total, creating a record for most in one match. It was entertainment at its peak, but it also underlined Australia’s unmatched batting depth.
Australia’s Template for Success
Australia have built a template around aggression, depth, and relentless consistency. From Clark’s era to Lanning’s dominance, the culture continues. Scoring 412 against India highlights their ability to perform under pressure. For India, chasing such a total with confidence shows growth. For Australia, it was just another day of setting new standards.
Conclusion
The Delhi ODI was more than just another game. It showcased Smriti Mandhana’s brilliance, Australia’s dominance, and India’s growing belief. Mandhana’s 50-ball century was the second-fastest in women’s ODIs, but more importantly, it represented India’s rise. Her 13th hundred, combined with her strike rate of nearly 200, underlined her as the face of modern batting.
Australia’s total of 412 showed why they remain the benchmark in the women’s game. Their batting power and series record leave no doubts about their supremacy. Yet India’s chase of 369, the highest ever, sent a message. The gap is closing, and with stars like Mandhana, India can dream bigger.
The Women’s World Cup has remained elusive since the 1973 edition, the first women’s ODI World Cup. But with this fearless brand of cricket, belief is stronger than ever. Smriti Mandhana’s bat has become a symbol of hope. Each run brings India closer to rewriting history. Fans, players, and coaches now feel the time has come.
