Smriti Mandhana delivered a remarkable performance in the third and final Women’s T20I between India and West Indies on December 19 at the Dr. DY Patil Sports Academy. The left-handed batter scored 77 runs off just 47 balls, including 13 fours and a six, guiding India to a massive total of 217/4. This total became India’s highest-ever score in Women’s T20Is, surpassing their previous record of 201/5 against UAE in the Women’s Asia Cup earlier this year. Jemimah Rodrigues also contributed with a solid 39 runs off 28 balls.
Mandhana’s consistency throughout the series was noteworthy. She had already scored 54 runs in both the first and second T20Is, despite India losing the second match. Her brilliant innings in the decider, along with Rodrigues’ support, helped India finish on top.
Breaking Mithali Raj’s Record
Mandhana’s 77-run knock not only helped India win but also saw her break a long-standing record held by Mithali Raj. Mithali had scored 192 runs in a five-match series against South Africa in 2018. Mandhana surpassed that, finishing with 193 runs in the three-match series against the West Indies.
Mandhana also made history by scoring half-centuries in all three matches of the series, surpassing New Zealand’s Suzie Bates for the most 50+ scores in Women’s T20Is.
Most Runs in a Bilateral T20I Series for India
- Smriti Mandhana: 193 runs (vs West Indies)
- Mithali Raj: 192 runs (vs South Africa)
- Jemimah Rodrigues: 191 runs (vs Sri Lanka)
In addition, Mandhana has scored 763 runs in 23 matches in 2024, reaching the top spot for the most T20I runs in a calendar year. This further solidifies her position as one of the best batters in women’s cricket.
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