In a breathtaking display of batting prowess, Indian vice-captain Smriti Mandhana has etched her name in cricket history books during the ongoing ICC Women's World Cup 2025. The elegant left-hander produced a spectacular performance against New Zealand that left cricket enthusiasts worldwide in absolute awe.
A Record-Equalling Masterclass
Mandhana achieved what no other Indian woman cricketer has accomplished in World Cup history - she smashed a scintillating century in just 57 deliveries, matching the world record for the fastest hundred in women's ODI cricket. This monumental achievement places her alongside the legendary West Indies batter Deandra Dottin, who set the record back in 2013.
India's First World Cup 2025 Century
The dynamic opener didn't just break records; she created history by scoring Team India's first century of the Women's World Cup 2025 tournament. Her innings was a perfect blend of classical strokeplay and modern aggressive batting, featuring:
- 15 exquisite boundaries that pierced the field
- 6 massive sixes that sailed into the stands
- A strike rate of over 175 throughout her innings
- Partnerships that demoralized the New Zealand bowling attack
Dominant Victory for Team India
Mandhana's historic knock propelled India to a commanding total that proved too much for the New Zealand side. The Indian bowlers, riding high on the momentum created by their batting unit, delivered a clinical performance to secure a comprehensive victory.
This record-breaking innings serves multiple historic milestones:
- Fastest century by any Indian woman in ODI cricket
- First Indian century in Women's World Cup 2025
- Joint fastest century in women's ODI history worldwide
- A statement-making performance that announces India's serious title intentions
What This Means for Indian Cricket
Mandhana's extraordinary achievement marks a significant moment in the evolution of women's cricket in India. It demonstrates the growing power and confidence of Indian batters on the world stage and sets a new benchmark for excellence in the sport.
The innings has not only given India crucial points in the tournament but has also sent a strong message to other competing nations about India's batting firepower. As the World Cup progresses, this historic knock will be remembered as a defining moment that could very well shape India's campaign toward the championship trophy.
