India vice-captain Smriti Mandhana created history on Sunday. She completed 10,000 international runs in women’s cricket. She became only the fourth woman batter in the world to achieve this milestone. She is also the second Indian woman to do so.
The historic moment came during the fourth T20I against Sri Lanka. The match was played at the Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram.
Historic Moment for Indian Cricket and Smriti Mandhana
Smriti Mandhana came into the match needing just 27 runs. Before the game, she had scored 9,972 runs. These runs came across Tests, ODIs, and T20Is. She reached the landmark early in the innings. She pushed a full delivery towards long-on to complete her 10,000th run.
With this feat, Mandhana joined an elite group. The list includes Mithali Raj, Suzie Bates, and Charlotte Edwards. Mandhana is now the second Indian woman, after Mithali Raj, to cross 10,000 international runs.
India had already sealed the five-match T20I series. They were leading 3-0 before this match. Sri Lanka captain Chamari Athapaththu won the toss. She chose to bowl first. She hoped dew would help her team while chasing later.
Mandhana opened the innings with Shafali Verma. The pair started strongly. Mandhana played calmly. She allowed Shafali to attack the bowlers. India scored 61 runs in the powerplay without losing a wicket.
By the end of 10 overs, India were 85 without loss. Mandhana was unbeaten on 37 off 31 balls. She hit six boundaries. Shafali Verma was on 48 off 29 balls. The opening partnership crossed fifty quickly.
Women batters with 10,000 international runs:
Mithali Raj – 10,868
Suzie Bates – 10,652
Charlotte Edwards – 10,273
Smriti Mandhana – 10,000*
Mandhana’s achievement is a proud moment for Indian cricket.
ALSO READ Ravichandran Ashwin Explains Why Indian Cricketers Stay Silent After Being Dropped
