Smriti Mandhana’s Sensational Century Propels Her to New Heights in ODI History
In a breathtaking display of skill and elegance, Smriti Mandhana smashed her way into the history books with a scintillating 116-run knock off just 101 balls in the final of the Women’s Tri-Nation ODI Series against Sri Lanka in Colombo on Sunday. Her 11th ODI century not only powered India to a commanding total but also elevated her to the third spot on the all-time list of most centuries in women’s ODIs, trailing only behind Australia’s Meg Lanning (15) and New Zealand’s Suzie Bates (13).
Mandhana’s innings was a masterclass in timing and shot selection, as the elegant left-hander peppered the boundary with 15 fours, maintaining an impressive strike rate of 114.85. Opening the innings alongside debutant Pratika Rawal, who contributed a steady 30 off 49 balls, Mandhana took charge after an early setback, stitching together a crucial partnership. Her ability to find gaps effortlessly and rotate the strike kept the Sri Lankan bowlers under relentless pressure, setting the stage for India’s dominance.
Coming into the final as table-toppers with three wins from four matches, the Harmanpreet Kaur-led Indian side made a strategic tweak to their lineup, handing a debut to medium-pacer Kranti Goud in place of Shuchi Upadhyay. Sri Lanka, on the other hand, were dealt a blow with the absence of key all-rounder Kavisha Dilhari due to illness, bringing in Inoka Ranaweera and Piumi Wathsala as replacements. Despite their efforts, the hosts struggled to contain Mandhana’s onslaught.
Beyond the numbers, this innings reaffirmed Mandhana’s status as one of the finest batters in modern women’s cricket. Her consistency—she now has over 3,500 ODI runs at an average hovering around 45—combined with her flair, makes her a cornerstone of India’s batting lineup. As the 28-year-old continues to break barriers, including becoming one of the fastest Indian women to reach 10 ODI tons last year, her latest milestone is a testament to her hunger for runs and unyielding commitment to the game.
As the dust settles on this thrilling final at the R. Premadasa Stadium, Mandhana’s heroics will be remembered as a defining moment in India’s campaign. Whether it’s her ability to anchor an innings or accelerate at will, the southpaw remains a beacon of inspiration for aspiring cricketers worldwide. With more challenges on the horizon, including the upcoming Women’s ODI World Cup, Mandhana’s form promises to be a game-changer for India’s aspirations on the global stage.