New Delhi: Smriti Mandhan lit up the Arun Jaitley Stadium with a record-breaking century that gave India hope in their massive chase against Australia. The left-hander brought up her hundred in just 50 balls, making it the fastest by an Indian in women’s ODIs and the second-fastest overall in the format’s history.
India were set a daunting target of 412 after Australia equalled their all-time highest ODI total earlier in the day. With pressure stacked high, Mandhana chose aggression as her weapon, punishing anything loose and finding the boundary with crisp timing. By the time she reached three figures, India were 190/2, with skipper Harmanpreet Kaur steady at the other end on 46 not out.
It was a knock that perfectly balanced flair and determination, underlining why Mandhana has become the face of India’s batting in the women’s game.
Fifty off just 23 deliveries 🔥🔥
Vice-captain Smriti Mandhana registers the Fastest ODI Fifty by an Indian batter in women’s cricket! 🫡
Fifty partnership 🆙 for the 2nd wicket 🤝
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— BCCI Women (@BCCIWomen) September 20, 2025
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