Smriti Mandhana Becomes Fastest Woman to 5,000 ODI Runs
Smriti Mandhana has made headlines once again, showcasing her exceptional talent on the cricket field. During a recent match in the Women’s World Cup, she achieved a remarkable milestone that solidifies her status as one of the top players in women’s cricket.
Historic Achievement
In a match against Australia in Visakhapatnam, Mandhana became the youngest and fastest woman to reach 5,000 runs in One Day Internationals (ODIs). She accomplished this feat in her 112th ODI, surpassing the previous record held by West Indies’ Stafanie Taylor, who reached the milestone in 129 matches. New Zealand’s Suzie Bates and India’s Mithali Raj followed closely behind, achieving the milestone in 136 and 144 matches, respectively.
Impressive Performance
Mandhana’s record-breaking run came during a stellar innings where she scored 80 runs off just 66 balls, featuring nine boundaries and three sixes. Her innings was pivotal in putting India in a commanding position against Australia. She reached her half-century in 46 balls, demonstrating her ability to accelerate the scoring after a cautious start. This match also marked her first fifty in the ongoing 2025 Women’s World Cup, a significant turnaround after a slow start in the tournament.
Recent Form
Before the World Cup, Mandhana had been in outstanding form, scoring two centuries in a three-match ODI series against Australia, accumulating a total of 300 runs. With her recent performance, she has extended her record for the most ODI runs in a calendar year, bringing her total to 974 runs. This achievement highlights her consistency and skill as a leading player in women’s cricket.
FAQs
How many ODIs has Smriti Mandhana played?
As of her recent milestone, Smriti Mandhana has played 112 One Day Internationals.
Who held the previous record for the fastest 5,000 runs in Women’s ODIs?
The previous record was held by Stafanie Taylor of the West Indies, who reached 5,000 runs in 129 matches.
What was Mandhana’s score in the match against Australia?
In the match against Australia, Smriti Mandhana scored 80 runs off 66 balls.
Conclusion
Smriti Mandhana’s achievement of becoming the fastest woman to reach 5,000 runs in ODIs is a testament to her skill and dedication to the sport. As she continues to perform at a high level, fans and cricket enthusiasts will be eager to see how she contributes to India’s campaign in the ongoing Women’s World Cup.
Mandhana’s achievement comes at a time when women’s cricket is gaining significant visibility and support globally. The Women’s World Cup has been instrumental in showcasing the talent and competitiveness of female cricketers, with increased media coverage and sponsorship opportunities. This milestone not only highlights Mandhana’s individual prowess but also reflects the growing recognition of women’s cricket as a serious and entertaining sport.
The record for the fastest 5,000 runs is particularly noteworthy given the evolving nature of the game. Women cricketers have increasingly been breaking barriers, both in terms of performance and participation. Mandhana’s success serves as an inspiration to young athletes, encouraging more girls to take up cricket and pursue their dreams in sports. Her ability to perform under pressure, especially in high-stakes matches like the World Cup, underscores the importance of mental resilience and skill development in achieving success at the international level.
As the tournament progresses, Mandhana’s performance will be closely monitored, not just for her batting statistics but also for her leadership on the field. She has been a crucial part of the Indian women’s team, contributing not only with her runs but also by mentoring younger players. The impact of her achievement extends beyond personal accolades, as it contributes to the narrative of women’s empowerment in sports, showcasing that with dedication and hard work, remarkable feats can be achieved.
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