India’s opening match Smriti Mandhana She once again proved why she is considered the beating heart of Indian women’s cricket. On a bright Sunday afternoon at the ACA-VDCA Stadium in Visakhapatnam, Mandhana entered the record books by becoming the youngest and fastest batsman to reach 5,000 runs in women’s One Day Internationals (ODIs).
Blow of class and control by Smriti Mandanna
The left-hander played an innings that combined elegance and aggression, smashing a brilliant 80 off just 66 balls. Her knock, which included nine boundaries and three majestic sixes, was a masterclass in timing and placement. From crisp hits through the covers to well-judged pulls, Mandhana dictated the tempo from the start and never allowed the Australian bowlers to settle.
Her roles were more than just a personal accomplishment, but rather a statement of intent. Mandhana’s dominance at the crease set the tone for India’s innings and gave the packed Visakhapatnam crowd plenty to cheer about. Every run she scored carried the stamp of confidence that distinguished her career.
Record partnership with newcomer Pratika Rawal
Mandhana found a capable partner in the debutant Pratika Rawalwho seemed composed beyond her years. The duo added a strong 155-run opening partnership, setting the perfect platform for India’s innings. While Mandhana played the role of the aggressor, Rawal rotated the knock efficiently, showing maturity and patience in her unbeaten run of 67 off 85 deliveries.
Their partnership frustrated the Australian bowlers, who struggled to find movement or discipline on a flat pitch. It wasn’t until Sophie Molyneux caused an errant stroke from Mandana that it was discovered Phoebe Litchfield – which the visitors finally penetrated. But by then, the damage had been done, and India was already heading toward massive overall damage.
A milestone throughout the ages
At just 29 years of age, Mandhana’s journey to 5,000 ODI runs epitomizes her unwavering consistency and hunger for excellence. She reached the milestone in record time, surpassing many legendary names in women’s cricket. Her ability to score in a variety of conditions and against world-class attacks has made her one of the most complete strikers of her generation.
From her debut as a teenager to now becoming the fastest and youngest 5,000 runner, Mandana’s career is an inspiring story of perseverance and growth. Her achievement received thunderous applause from the home crowd, a moment that underscored how deeply she connected with cricket fans across the country.
India eventually scored 330 runs in 48.5 overs, thanks largely to the first-order brilliance of Mandhana and Rawal. Although the middle order faltered after Mandhana’s dismissal, Rawal’s 75-run knock ensured that India had a healthy total to defend.
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This article was first published in WomenCricket.comA Cricket times a company.
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