The Wisden Cricketers’ Almanack award for the Leading Woman Cricketer in the World is among the most prestigious honours in the sport, recognising the standout performer across formats over a calendar year. Often referred to as the “Bible of Cricket,” Wisden’s selections carry immense credibility, and for Indian women’s cricket, each recognition has marked a significant milestone in its rise on the global stage. Across the years, three Indian players on four occasions have earned this distinction, each reflecting a different phase in the team’s evolution.
Mithali Raj (2017)
Mithali Raj’s recognition in 2017 came during one of the most remarkable phases of her career, combining individual milestones with team success on the biggest stage. She led India to the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup final, playing a central role as both captain and batting mainstay. Over the course of the tournament, Mithali scored 409 runs, finishing among the leading run-getters and anchoring India’s campaign with her trademark composure.
Beyond the World Cup, Mithali achieved historic milestones, becoming the highest run-scorer in Women’s ODI history and the first to cross 6,000 ODI runs. Her consistency peaked with a record seven consecutive 50-plus scores in ODIs, a feat that highlighted her ability to deliver across conditions and opposition. Wisden’s recognition reflected not just her numbers, but her enduring influence on the game.
Smriti Mandhana (2018, 2024)
A year later, Smriti Mandhana took over the spotlight with a breakthrough season that established her as one of the most exciting batters in world cricket. In 2018, she produced a prolific run across formats, particularly in ODIs where she scored 669 runs in 12 matches at an average of 66.90, including two centuries. Her dominance extended to T20Is, where she amassed over 600 runs at a strike rate above 130, showcasing her aggressive approach at the top of the order. Mandhana’s performances in overseas conditions especially in England and Australia stood out, as she consistently took on quality bowling attacks with confidence and flair.
Mandhana became the first Indian woman to win the Wisden honour twice when she was recognised again in 2024, following another exceptional year across formats. She amassed a staggering 1,659 international runs, the most by any woman in a single calendar year, underlining her consistency and dominance at the highest level. Her ODI performances were particularly remarkable, as she struck four centuries, the most by a player in a year, while maintaining an average above 50. Mandhana also made her mark in the longest format, scoring a commanding 149 against South Africa, guiding India to a ten-wicket victory.
Mandhana’s ability to deliver in all conditions and formats, often setting the tone for India at the top of the order. Her performances combined volume with impact, making her a clear choice for Wisden’s top honour for the second time.
Deepti Sharma (2025)
Deepti Sharma’s recognition in 2025 highlighted the growing importance of all-rounders in modern cricket. She enjoyed a sensational year, playing a pivotal role in India’s historic ICC Women’s ODI World Cup triumph. During the tournament, she scored 215 runs at an average of 30.71 and claimed 22 wickets, emerging as one of the standout performers. Her impact was most evident in the final, where she produced a match-winning all-round display scoring 58 off 58 balls and returning figures of 5/39 to guide India to victory. Across the year, Deepti finished as the leading wicket-taker in Women’s ODIs with 39 wickets, while also contributing crucial runs in the middle order.
These honours reflect India’s growing presence at the top level of women’s cricket, with players consistently delivering standout performances on the global stage. From Mithali Raj’s record-setting consistency to Smriti Mandhana’s run-scoring dominance and Deepti Sharma’s all-round impact, each award underscores how Indian cricketers have shaped results in different conditions and formats, establishing themselves among the best in the world.
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