Smriti Mandhana’s bat wrote a new chapter in history. India’s explosive opener is now the all-time leading run-scorer across all formats in women’s international cricket, surpassing legend Mithali Raj. The left-handed batter also claimed the record for most centuries in women’s cricket, going past former Australia captain Meg Lanning.
Mandhana produced a blistering innings against Hong Kong in a group-stage match at the Asia Cup on Thursday, striking an unbeaten 124 off just 64 balls studded with 14 fours and seven sixes. Her innings powered India to 193 for 5 in their 20 overs. In reply, Hong Kong were bowled out for just 56, handing India a massive 137-run win.
The historic century took Mandhana’s international career run tally to 10,880, surpassing fellow Indian great Mithali Raj, who had previously topped the list with 10,868 runs. It was also Mandhana’s 18th century in international cricket, taking her past Meg Lanning’s record.
Speaking to reporters after the match about her feelings, Mandhana said: “While I was batting, I didn’t know exactly how many runs I’d scored or which record I was breaking. But looking back, I’d say it’s a great day for Indian cricket. Mithali has always been a legend and a role model — we all grew up watching her. So surpassing her on the run-scorers’ list is something I never imagined.”
The Indian star added: “We grew up watching two greats of the game — Meg Lanning and Mithali Raj. As a batter, I’ve tried to learn a lot from them. I’m truly delighted to have surpassed them today.”
Mithali herself congratulated Smriti on her achievement on X, writing: “Well deserved, Smriti. I’ve watched you grow from a young player into one of the finest batters in Indian cricket. Breaking my record to become the highest run-scorer in international cricket is a moment that makes me genuinely proud. May there be many more runs and milestones from your bat. Keep going!”
Mandhana made her international debut in 2013. The 30-year-old opener, in red-hot form at the ongoing Asia Cup, now has the 11,000-run milestone in her sights. India take the field against Pakistan in their next match today.