Smriti Mandhana has long been a regular in India’s batting order, and in 2025, she established her status as one of the best female cricketers the country has produced. She continues to dominate international competition with a beautiful, aggressive, and consistent style that sets records and propels India to new heights.
Early Career and Rise to Stardom
Mandhana’s ascent to cricketing greatness began when she was just a child. She made her international debut in 2013 and quickly became known for her stunning left-handed stroke play. Over time, she became one of India’s most dependable batsmen in all formats, particularly in ODIs and T20Is.
A record-breaking performance in 2025
Fastest Indian woman to reach 4,000 ODI runs
In early 2025, Mandhana became the fastest Indian female cricketer to score 4,000 ODI runs, overtaking luminaries such as Mithali Raj. She accomplished this milestone in record time, demonstrating her exceptional consistency.
The fastest century by an Indian woman (70 balls in January 2025)
Mandhana maintained her dominance in 2025, achieving the fastest century by an Indian woman in one-day internationals in just 70 balls. The scorching innings demonstrated her ability to combine power and elegance, making her a nightmare for bowlers throughout the world.
The first Indian woman to score ten ODI hundreds
Smriti Mandhana became the first Indian woman to score ten ODI hundreds, marking another historic achievement. This feat demonstrated her ability to perform under duress and her desire to get high marks.
ICC Women’s One-Day International Cricketer of the Year 2025
Her remarkable performances throughout the year earned her the prestigious ICC Women’s ODI Cricketer of the Year award, placing her among the most well-known players of the modern era.
Mandhana’s Impact on Indian Women’s Cricket
Leadership & Mentorship
Although not a full-time captain, Mandhana has frequently led India in the absence of regular skipper Harmanpreet Kaur. She has also served as a mentor to budding talent such as Shafali Verma, Jemimah Rodrigues, and Richa Ghosh.
Domination of the Women’s Premier League (WPL)
As one of the most sought-after players in the Women’s Premier League (WPL), Mandhana’s success in franchise cricket has been as impressive. Her leadership of the Royal Challengers Bangalore Women’s squad has made her a fan favorite and an inspiration to young players.
Game Changer in T20 Cricket
Despite her domination in ODIs, Mandhana has also excelled in T20 internationals, scoring rapid runs at the top of the order on a continuous basis. Her ability to anchor innings while maintaining a high strike rate has been key to India’s success in ICC tournaments.
What distinguishes Mandhana?
Elegant stroke play
Mandhana’s batting strategy is based on timing, placement, and controlled aggression. Her cover drives and flicks down the leg side are considered among the best in women’s cricket.
Consistency under pressure
Unlike many hitters, Mandhana thrives in high-pressure situations. Her performance in ICC events and key bilateral series has frequently made the difference between win and defeat for India.
Versatility in Formats
Mandhana’s game adapts seamlessly to fast-paced T20 matches and methodical innings in Test matches. Her ability to change gears makes her one of the most flexible batters in the world.
The Road Ahead: Can She Be India’s Greatest?
Mandhana is only 28 years old and yet in the prime of her career. With many more years of cricket ahead of her, she has the potential to set even more records and solidify her place as India’s best female cricketer. If she sustains this pace, she might break Mithali Raj’s ODI run record and lead India to their first ICC Women’s World Cup title.
Conclusion
Smriti Mandhana’s journey in 2025 depicts her splendor. With her record-breaking achievements, superb batting, and leadership skills, she remains a pillar of Indian women’s cricket. As she continues to grow, fans and professionals alike are excited to see what new milestones she will attain in the coming years.
“Smriti Mandhana dominated 2025 with record-breaking performances, being India’s fastest to achieve 4,000 ODI runs, scoring ten hundreds, and winning the ICC ODI Cricketer of the Year”.
