Smriti Mandhana's record-breaking performance in the Women's World Cup final has left cricket fans in awe! A true game-changer, she's shattered records and inspired a nation.
In a historic moment, Mandhana became the highest run-scorer for India Women in a single World Cup edition, surpassing the legendary Mithali Raj's 2017 record. With a powerful 45 off just 58 balls, she showcased her dominance at the top of the order. But here's where it gets controversial... Mandhana's incredible consistency throughout the tournament almost led her to another massive milestone.
She fell just short of becoming the third Indian batter to reach the 1,000-run mark in Women's ODI World Cups. An elite club, currently only skipper Harmanpreet Kaur and Mithali Raj hold that honor. Mandhana's partnership with Shafali Verma, a stunning 104-run stand, set the tone for India's strong start in the final. Their composed approach laid the foundation for a promising total.
However, Mandhana's journey in the final was cut short, edging a cut shot to the wicketkeeper. Despite this, her impact on the game was undeniable. With 434 runs in 9 innings, an average of 54.25, and a high score of 109, she has proven her worth as a consistent performer.
And this is the part most people miss... Mandhana's strike rate of 99.08 showcases her ability to score quickly and efficiently. A true all-rounder, she's a force to be reckoned with.
So, who do you think is the most crucial player in India's batting line-up? Is it the consistent Mandhana, the experienced Kaur, or the rising star Verma? Let us know in the comments! We'd love to hear your thoughts and spark a discussion on this exciting topic.
