The Indian women's cricket team scripted a glorious chapter in the sport's history on Tuesday, July 9, by registering the highest-ever team total in women's T20 Internationals. In the fourth match of the ongoing series against Sri Lanka, the hosts put on a breathtaking batting display at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium, amassing a mammoth 221 runs for the loss of just two wickets in their allotted 20 overs.
A Batting Masterclass Led by Mandhana and Kaur
The foundation of this monumental score was laid by a spectacular opening partnership. Captain Smriti Mandhana was in sublime touch, playing a captain's knock of 71 runs off just 51 deliveries. Her innings was a blend of elegance and power, setting the perfect tempo for the innings. At the other end, the explosive Shafali Verma provided the early fireworks, scoring a quickfire 22.
However, the real carnage was unleashed by former captain Harmanpreet Kaur. Walking in at number three, Harmanpreet played one of the most destructive innings witnessed in women's T20I cricket. She remained unbeaten on a scintillating 61 off a mere 27 balls, an innings peppered with 7 fours and 3 massive sixes, boasting a staggering strike rate of 225.92. Her partnership with Mandhana completely demoralized the Sri Lankan bowling attack.
Record-Breaking Feat and Series Context
This total of 221/2 surpassed the previous record of 217/4, which was also held by India, achieved against South Africa in Chennai earlier in 2024. The timing of this record is significant as it came in the fourth T20I of a five-match series where India had already secured an unassailable 3-0 lead. The decision to bat first after winning the toss proved to be a masterstroke, allowing the batters to express themselves freely without the pressure of a series decider.
The Sri Lankan bowlers had no answers to the Indian onslaught. While the pitch was good for batting, the Indian batters' aggressive intent and clean hitting made the total possible. Every bowler, including the experienced Chamari Athapaththu, was taken to the cleaners as India piled on the runs in both the powerplay and the death overs.
Implications and the Road Ahead
This record-breaking performance is a massive statement of intent from the Indian women's team, showcasing their immense batting depth and firepower. It underscores the rapid evolution of the women's game, where scores once considered impossible are now being chased and set regularly. The innings sends a strong message to other cricketing nations ahead of major global tournaments.
The victory in the fourth T20I, powered by this historic total, further solidified India's dominance in the series. It provides immense confidence to the batting unit, particularly to Harmanpreet Kaur, who found her devastating best form. For Sri Lanka, the match exposed the gulf in quality when facing a top-tier batting lineup firing on all cylinders. The teams will now meet for the fifth and final T20I, where India will look to complete a clean sweep while Sri Lanka will aim for a consolation win.
This landmark achievement on July 9, 2024, in Dambulla will be remembered as a day when the Indian women's cricket team redefined the limits of scoring in the shortest format of the game.
