Indian cricket star Smriti Mandhana has once again proven why she is considered one of the finest batters in women’s cricket. In the second ODI against Australia on September 17, 2025, at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur, Mandhana smashed a sensational 77-ball century, setting multiple records and igniting the crowd. This performance, combined with her recent reclaiming of the No. 1 spot in the ICC Women’s ODI batting rankings, has solidified her status as a key player for India ahead of the Women’s Cricket World Cup, set to begin on September 30, 2025.
A Historic Century Against Australia
Mandhana’s 12th ODI century came in just 77 balls, making it the second-fastest century by an Indian woman in ODIs, only behind her own 70-ball ton against Ireland earlier in 2025. Her knock of 117 runs off 91 balls, laced with 14 fours and four sixes, was a masterclass in aggressive yet elegant batting. Notably, she set a new record for the fastest century by a batter against Australia in women’s ODIs, surpassing England’s Nat Sciver-Brunt’s 79-ball effort in 2022. This performance also marked Mandhana as the first Asian woman cricketer to score 15 international centuries, a historic milestone.
India, batting first after Australia opted to field, saw Mandhana dominate the opposition’s celebrated bowling attack. Her fluent stroke play, particularly on the leg side, contrasted with her trademark off-side elegance, showcasing her versatility. Alongside opening partner Pratika Rawal, she laid a solid foundation, helping India reach 180/3 at the 30-over drinks break. This century also tied her with England’s Tammy Beaumont for the third-most ODI hundreds, behind only New Zealand’s Suzie Bates (13) and Australia’s Meg Lanning (15).
Reclaiming the No. 1 ICC ODI Ranking
Just days before her record-breaking century, Mandhana reclaimed the top spot in the ICC Women’s ODI batting rankings on September 16, 2025, following a 58-run knock off 63 balls in the first ODI against Australia. Despite India’s loss in that match, her consistent performances earned her 735 rating points, edging out Sciver-Brunt’s 731. This marks the fourth time Mandhana has achieved the No. 1 ranking, having first done so in January 2019. Her latest rise underscores her dominance and consistency, with over 4,700 runs in ODIs at an average above 47, second only to Bates among female openers.
A Stellar 2025 and Beyond
Mandhana’s 2025 has been nothing short of spectacular. In 13 ODI matches this year, she has scored 803 runs at an average of 61.67, including three centuries and four fifties. Her 2024 was equally impressive, with 1,602 runs across all formats, highlighted by a 149 in a Test match against South Africa. As India gears up for the Women’s ODI World Cup, Mandhana’s form and leadership as vice-captain will be crucial.
Looking Ahead
With the World Cup approaching, Mandhana’s recent performances have sent a strong message to opponents. Her ability to deliver under pressure against top teams like Australia, combined with her reclaiming of the No. 1 ranking, positions her as a pivotal figure for India’s campaign. Cricket experts and fans alike are hailing her consistency and ability to perform on the global stage, further elevating the profile of Indian women’s cricket.
As Mandhana continues to break records and set new benchmarks, her journey remains an inspiration for aspiring cricketers worldwide. Stay tuned for more updates as she leads India into the World Cup with unmatched flair and determination.
