Smriti Mandhana, the 28-year-old elegant left-handed batter and vice-captain of the Indian women’s cricket team, has set another milestone in her illustrious career. In 2024, she has been in phenomenal form, becoming the leading run-scorer in ODIs and surpassing South African captain Laura Wolvaardt. Mandhana’s consistent performances have been a driving force for India this year.
A Record-Breaking Year for Smriti Mandhana
Mandhana has scored an impressive 743 runs in 12 ODI innings this year, maintaining a remarkable average of 61.91 and a strike rate of 96.99. Her run tally includes three half-centuries and four centuries, cementing her position as one of the greatest players of her generation. She overtook Wolvaardt’s 697-run tally during the second ODI against the West Indies at the Kotambi Stadium, Vadodara, where she scored 53 runs off 47 balls. The record-breaking moment came when she struck a boundary off Shamilia Connell on the last ball of the fourth over.
A Streak of Dominance
Mandhana’s knock in Vadodara marked her fifth consecutive 50+ score in the ongoing white-ball series against the West Indies. This incredible run of form highlights her ability to consistently deliver under pressure. She also made history as the only woman cricketer to achieve seven or more 50+ scores in three different calendar years in ODIs.
Unfortunately, her innings ended in the 17th over due to a mix-up with her batting partner, Pratika Rawal, leading to a run-out. Despite the dismissal, her contributions with the bat continue to define India’s campaign in 2024.
Smriti Mandhana party continues 😍🇮🇳#CricketTwitter #INDvWI pic.twitter.com/OB8MI265Bz
— Female Cricket (@imfemalecricket) December 24, 2024
Career-Best Performance in 2024
Mandhana’s tally of 743 runs in 2024 is already her personal best for a calendar year in ODIs. Her standout performance came on June 19, 2024, against South Africa in Bengaluru, where she smashed 136 runs off 120 balls. This career-best knock showcased her ability to anchor innings and accelerate when needed.
Another highlight of her stellar year was her ninth ODI century, scored during the third ODI against Australia at the W.A.C.A. in Perth. Her 105 off 109 balls made her the first woman cricketer to score four centuries in ODIs within a single calendar year, further solidifying her status as a modern-day great.
Mandhana’s Impact on Indian Women’s Cricket
Mandhana’s consistent performances have been instrumental in India’s success in the ODI format. Her ability to adapt to different conditions, build innings, and deliver in pressure situations makes her a cornerstone of the team. Beyond her statistics, Mandhana’s elegance at the crease and ability to lead by example inspire her teammates and fans alike.
As 2024 progresses, Smriti Mandhana’s incredible achievements not only underscore her individual brilliance but also highlight the growing dominance of Indian women’s cricket on the global stage.
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