Smriti Mandhana's recent achievement of becoming the fastest player to score 10,000 runs in women's international
cricket marks a significant milestone not only in her career but also in the landscape of women's cricket. Reaching this
benchmark in just 281 international appearances, Mandhana surpasses the previous record held by Mithali Raj,
demonstrating her consistency and ability to perform under pressure. With this achievement, she joins an elite group of
players, including Mithali Raj, Suzie Bates, and Charlotte Edwards, who have all crossed the 10,000-run threshold.
Mandhana's scoring portfolio is impressive, comprising 5,322 runs in ODIs, 4,022 runs in T20Is, and 629 runs from seven
Test matches. This diversified scoring across formats underscores her adaptability as a player. Her ODI performance,
particularly, showcases her dominance, with 14 centuries, nine of which have come in the last two years, indicating a
peak in her form at a crucial time for Indian women's cricket.
The 29-year-old's performance in the fourth T20I against Sri Lanka, where she scored 80 runs off just 48 balls, further
emphasizes her current hot streak. This innings not only contributed significantly to India's total but also set the
tone for the match, reflecting her ability to anchor and accelerate the innings effectively. The partnership with
Shafali Verma, which resulted in a 162-run opening stand, is indicative of Mandhana's role as a key player in building
strong foundations for the team.
Mandhana's trajectory suggests that she is well-positioned to challenge Mithali Raj's record of 10,868 runs. Currently,
she is approximately 800 runs away, and with her current form, it is plausible that she could surpass this milestone
before the end of her career. Her consistent run-scoring ability and experience in international cricket make her a
formidable asset to the Indian team, especially as they look to build on their recent successes, including their maiden
Women's World Cup title earlier this year.
As she continues to break records and set new benchmarks, Mandhana's impact extends beyond personal achievements. Her
performances are likely to inspire a new generation of cricketers and elevate the profile of women's cricket globally.
The increasing visibility of women's cricket, coupled with Mandhana's star power, adds to the sport's growing
popularity, which is essential for its future growth.
In conclusion, Smriti Mandhana's rapid ascent to the 10,000-run milestone is a testament to her skill, perseverance, and
strategic approach to the game. Her performance not only enhances her legacy but also solidifies her status as one of
the leading figures in women's cricket, with potential records yet to come. The cricketing world will keenly watch her
journey as she aims to continue setting new records and contributing to the evolution of women's cricket on the