Smriti Mandhana Makes History, Becomes Second-Highest Run-Scorer in Women’s International Cricket
Dambulla: Indian cricket sensation Smriti Mandhana achieved a significant milestone in her illustrious career during the Women’s T20 Asia Cup opener against Thailand on Sunday. Despite a brief stay at the crease, the elegant left-handed opener etched her name into the record books, surpassing New Zealand legend Suzie Bates to become the second-highest run-scorer in women’s international cricket history.
A Historic Boundary
Mandhana entered the match needing only a handful of runs to overtake Bates. She achieved the feat in style, striking her first boundary of the innings to push her career total to 10,756 runs, successfully eclipsing Bates’ tally of 10,740.
While her innings was cut short at 19 runs off 10 deliveries—ending in an unfortunate run-out while attempting a second run—her impact on the game remains undeniable. Her contribution included four beautifully timed boundaries, further highlighting the consistency that has defined her career across all three formats.
The Path to the Top
With this achievement, Mandhana now sits behind only one player: former Indian captain and batting icon Mithali Raj. Raj continues to hold the top spot as the most prolific run-scorer in the history of women’s international cricket with 10,868 runs. Given Mandhana’s current form and age profile, fans and experts alike are looking at the possibility of her chasing down this final benchmark in the near future.
Mandhana’s total of 10,756 runs is a testament to her versatility, comprising 788 runs in Tests, 5,411 in ODIs, and 4,557 in T20Is.
Most Runs in Women’s International Cricket:
- Mithali Raj (India): 10,868
- Smriti Mandhana (India): 10,756*
- Suzie Bates (New Zealand): 10,740
- Charlotte Edwards (England): 10,273
- Stafanie Taylor (West Indies): 10,007
India Posts Competitive Total
The match itself saw a mix of fireworks and a mid-innings wobble for the Indian side. Explosive opener Shafali Verma led the charge with a blistering 64 off just 36 balls, peppered with eight boundaries and three towering sixes. Alongside Mandhana and debutant Pratika Rawal (22), India looked poised for a massive total at 108/2.
However, the Thai bowlers staged a remarkable comeback, triggering a collapse that saw India slide to 137/9. Late resistance from Kranti Gaud, who remained unbeaten on 15, ensured India reached a challenging total of 159/9.
For Thailand, Suleeporn Laomi was the standout performer with the ball, claiming an impressive 3/26, while Sunida Chaturongrattana supported with 2/31. As the tournament progresses, all eyes will remain on Mandhana as she continues her pursuit of the top spot in the global run charts.
