Smriti Mandhana etched her name in the history books on Saturday, becoming the first Indian woman to score centuries in all three formats of international cricket. The landmark came during the opening T20I of the five-match series against England at Nottingham, where Mandhana delivered a blistering 112 off just 62 balls.
The left-handed opener dominated England’s bowling with a strike rate of 180.65, hitting 15 fours and three sixes en route to her record-breaking knock. In doing so, she joined an elite global group of women’s cricketers who have scored hundreds in Tests, ODIs, and T20Is—joining the ranks of Heather Knight, Tammy Beaumont (both England), Laura Wolvaardt (South Africa), and Beth Mooney (Australia).
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Mandhana’s milestone innings powered India to a commanding total of 210/5 in their 20 overs. She shared a 77-run opening partnership with Shafali Verma (20 off 22) and followed it up with a 94-run second-wicket stand with Harleen Deol, who contributed a quickfire 43 off 23 balls, including seven boundaries.
Despite the absence of regular skipper Harmanpreet Kaur, who missed the match due to a head injury, Mandhana led the charge with confidence and authority. Her century is also notable for being only the second T20I fifty-plus score for India in recent matches, with Harmanpreet being the only other player to have managed one.
For England, Lauren Bell was the standout bowler, claiming 3 wickets for 27 runs, helping restrict India slightly in the final overs. England now require 211 to win and take an early lead in the series.
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