Smriti Mandhana’s name was almost on the team sheet for the wrong reason. An early, plumb LBW shout against New Zealand had everyone in the Wankhede Stadium holding their breath. The umpire’s finger stayed down, the review was unsuccessful, and what followed was nothing short of a masterclass in resilience and world-class batting.
Smriti Mandhana Turns Disbelief into Dominance
That moment of reprieve was the spark. Mandhana, visibly shocked at her luck, channeled that energy into a breathtaking innings of 109 runs. This wasn’t just any century; it was her 14th in ODI cricket, further cementing her status as one of the game’s premier batters .
Her knock was a perfect blend of elegant cover drives and powerful pulls, dismantling the New Zealand bowling attack on a challenging pitch. By the end of her innings, she had not only saved her wicket but had powered India into a commanding position in their ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 clash.
A Record-Breaking Opening Stand for the Ages
Mandhana didn’t do it alone. Her opening partner, Pratika Rawal, stood tall at the other end, playing a crucial supporting role. Together, they forged a monumental 212-run opening partnership, which is now the highest-ever for India in the history of the Women’s ODI World Cup [[1], [3]].
This incredible stand wasn’t just about the runs; it was about the statement it made. It showcased the depth and confidence in the Indian top order, leaving the New Zealand fielders in a state of disbelief as the runs piled up.
Smriti Mandhana: The Tournament’s Leading Light
With this blistering century, Smriti Mandhana has firmly established herself as the leading run-scorer of the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025. Her consistent performances at the top of the order have been the bedrock of India’s campaign so far .
Key Records from the Historic Partnership
| Record | Details |
|---|---|
| Highest Opening Stand for India (W-WC) | 212 runs |
| Mandhana’s ODI Centuries | 14th |
| Tournament’s Top Scorer | Smriti Mandhana |
This historic performance has not only given India a massive boost in the points table but has also sent a clear message to every other team in the competition: India’s batting lineup, led by Mandhana, is a force to be reckoned with.