In a remarkable display of skill and determination, Smriti Mandhana reached a significant milestone in her cricket career on Thursday, equaling the legendary Mithali Raj's record for the most 50-plus scores in women's international cricket. This achievement occurred during India's Women's Asia Cup match against Hong Kong China held in Dubai.
Mandhana's half-century came off just 40 balls, highlighted by an impressive six over deep backward square-leg off bowler Iqra Sahar. This marked her 93rd score of 50 or more in women's international cricket, placing her alongside Mithali Raj, who held the record outright until now. Raj, a former captain of the Indian women's team, retired from international cricket in 2022, having set a benchmark that stood firm for years.
With this latest achievement, Mandhana joins an elite group of cricketers. Following the two Indian stars, England's Charlotte Edwards ranks third with 80 scores of 50-plus, while New Zealand's Suzie Bates has 79. Both Stafanie Taylor of the West Indies and South Africa's Laura Wolvaardt are tied with 74 each.
After matching Mithali's record, Mandhana shifted gears, showcasing her aggressive batting style. She reached her century in just 57 balls, becoming the first Indian woman to score two T20I centuries. Her first century was recorded against England at Trent Bridge in 2025, where she scored 112 runs. Mandhana's latest innings culminated in a stunning 124 runs off 64 balls, featuring 14 fours and seven sixes, making it the highest individual score in Women's T20 Asia Cup history, surpassing the previous record of 119 set by Chamari Athapaththu in 2024.
In addition to her personal achievements, Mandhana's performance further solidified her partnership with Shafali Verma. Together, they have established a record for the most 50-plus partnerships in T20 internationals, with their latest collaboration marking the 29th such partnership. This record puts them well ahead of the next best pair, UAE's Esha Oza and Theertha Satish, who have 23 partnerships, and Australia's Alyssa Healy and Beth Mooney with 20.
Across all formats, Mandhana and Verma have combined for 44 50-plus partnerships, significantly outpacing New Zealand's Sophie Devine and Suzie Bates, who have 37. Mandhana's latest performance also enhances her standing as the leading scorer in women's T20Is, bringing her total to 37 50-plus scores, with Australia's Beth Mooney trailing at 33.
Smriti Mandhana's achievements in the Women's Asia Cup not only highlight her individual talent but also emphasize the growing prominence of women's cricket on the international stage. As she continues to break records and set new standards, Mandhana is undoubtedly a key player to watch in the future of the sport.
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