Indian cricket sensation Smriti Mandhana scripted history during the third ODI between India and Australia at the iconic WACA Stadium in Perth on Wednesday, December 11, 2024. Mandhana’s resilient century was the highlight of the game as the Women in Blue fell short in their pursuit of a challenging 299-run target. Despite India’s loss, the vice-captain etched her name into cricketing folklore by becoming the first woman in the history of ODI cricket to score four centuries in a calendar year.
A Lone Warrior in India’s Struggling Chase
After losing the first two games of the series, India entered the third match desperate to avoid a whitewash. Winning the toss, Indian skipper Harmanpreet Kaur opted to bowl first, hoping to capitalize on early movement at the WACA—a ground known for its pace-friendly conditions. The decision seemed justified as pacer Arundhati Reddy delivered a fiery spell, dismantling Australia’s top order and reducing them to a precarious 78/4.
However, the Australian middle order staged a remarkable recovery. All-rounder Annabel Sutherland anchored the innings with a brilliant century, showcasing her class and temperament under pressure. She was ably supported by Ashleigh Gardner and Tahlia McGrath, who contributed crucial half-centuries. Their partnerships ensured Australia posted a formidable total of 298/7 in their 50 overs.
Chasing 299, India’s innings revolved entirely around Smriti Mandhana. The left-handed opener displayed impeccable skill and determination, leading the chase with a scintillating 105 runs off 109 balls. Her innings included 11 exquisite boundaries, demonstrating her ability to pierce gaps effortlessly. Mandhana also built a vital 118-run partnership for the second wicket with Harleen Deol, keeping India in contention.
However, once Deol departed for 41, India’s batting lineup faltered under pressure. None of the remaining batters managed to contribute significantly, and the team was eventually bowled out, conceding a 3-0 series loss.
Smriti Mandhana’s Record-Breaking Feat
While India couldn’t avoid defeat, Smriti Mandhana emerged as the star of the match, achieving a feat never seen before in women’s ODI cricket. With her century in Perth, Mandhana became the first women’s player to score four ODI centuries in a calendar year. Her previous three centuries in 2024 came during standout performances against South Africa in Bengaluru and New Zealand in Ahmedabad.
This achievement sets Mandhana apart as one of the greatest batters in women’s cricket history. Before her, seven players had managed three centuries in a year, including legendary names like Sophie Devine, Meg Lanning, and Belinda Clark. However, none had breached the four-century mark until Mandhana’s historic knock at the WACA.
Most Women’s ODI Centuries in a Calendar Year
| Player | Country | Centuries | Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Smriti Mandhana | India | 4 | 2024 |
| Nat Sciver-Brunt | England | 3 | 2023 |
| Sophie Devine | New Zealand | 3 | 2018 |
| Laura Wolvaardt | South Africa | 3 | 2024 |
| Sidra Ameen | Pakistan | 3 | 2022 |
| Belinda Clark | Australia | 3 | 1997 |
| Amy Satterthwaite | New Zealand | 3 | 2016 |
| Meg Lanning | Australia | 3 | 2016 |
Mandhana’s record not only highlights her consistency but also underscores her ability to perform in high-pressure situations. She has been a beacon of hope for the Indian team, especially in matches where others have struggled to make an impact.
Ninth ODI Century of Mandhana’s Career
Mandhana’s century against Australia marked the ninth of her ODI career. This milestone places her among the elite in women’s cricket, with only a few players ahead of her in the all-time list of most ODI centuries. Australian skipper Meg Lanning leads the charts with 15 centuries, followed by Suzie Bates of New Zealand with 13, and England’s Tammy Beaumont with 10. Mandhana, now fourth on the list, is well on her way to joining this elite group as one of the game’s most prolific batters.
Earlier in 2024, Mandhana had broken Mithali Raj’s record for the most ODI centuries by an Indian woman. Mithali, a legend of the game, had held the record with seven centuries—a mark that Mandhana surpassed with her eighth and now ninth ton.
A Stellar Year for Smriti Mandhana
The year 2024 has undoubtedly been one of the best in Smriti Mandhana’s career. Her performances have been characterized by consistency, adaptability, and a knack for rising to the occasion when her team needed her the most. In addition to her batting prowess, Mandhana’s leadership as vice-captain has been crucial for India, especially during challenging tours like this one against Australia.
Mandhana’s achievements have not only brought her individual accolades but also boosted the visibility of women’s cricket globally. Her aggressive yet elegant batting style has made her a fan favorite, and her ability to deliver in crunch situations has earned her the respect of cricket pundits worldwide.
India’s Performance and the Road Ahead
While Mandhana’s historic feat is a silver lining, India’s performance in the series against Australia highlights areas that need improvement. The team struggled with middle-order collapses, inconsistent bowling, and an inability to capitalize on key moments.
However, with players like Smriti Mandhana in their ranks, the Women in Blue have a solid foundation to build upon. As the team gears up for future tournaments, Mandhana’s form and leadership will be vital in their quest for international success.
The Information is Collected from ESPN and Yahoo.
