Smriti Mandhana: India opener becomes highest run-scorer ever in women’s international cricket after record century | Cricket news
Smriti Mandhana became the all-time highest scorer in women’s international cricket after a record-breaking century for India in the Women’s Asia Cup.
Mandhana smashed 124 off 64 deliveries to help India to a 137-run win over Hong Kong in their second Group A match, as they scored 193-5 off their 20 overs before bowling out their opponents for 56.
The innings saw Mandhana reach 10,880 runs across all three formats for India and surpass former captain Mithali Raj to become the all-time leading run-scorer in women’s international cricket.
Mandhana’s century – which contains 14 fours and a maximum of sevens – was her 18th century across formats, which also saw her surpass former Australia captain Meg Lanning for most centuries in women’s international cricket.
“Until I was batting, I didn’t know what a record was [I had broken] Because I didn’t know what exactly worked [I had made]Mandana said in the post-match press conference.
“But looking back, I would say it was a very good day for Indian cricket. Of course, Mithali [Raj] He was such a legend and role model. “We all grew up watching her bat, so to go over the number of runs is something I definitely never imagined doing.”
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Take a look at some of Smriti Mandhana’s magic in India vs England in 2021
She added: “Two legends of the game: Meg Lanning and Mithali Raj – these are the people I grew up watching. I tried to take a lot of things from them as batsmen, and I’m so happy I was able to surpass them in any way I could.”
Mandhana made her debut for India in 2013 and scored her maiden T20I century last year, becoming the first Indian player to score a ton across all formats in women’s cricket.
“Worth it,” Raj, who held the previous record with 10,868 runs across various formats, said on X. @mandhana_smriti. I have watched you grow from a young player to one of the best batsmen India has produced.
“Seeing you surpass my own record and become the highest run-scorer in international cricket is a moment I’m really proud of. Here’s to many more innings and achievements. Keep it up!”
The 30-year-old could cross 11,000 runs during the Asia Cup, where India will next play against Pakistan on Saturday.
