Smriti Mandhana produced one of the finest innings ever seen in women’s ODIs. She lit up the Arun Jaitley Stadium with a 50-ball century during the series decider against Australia. It was the fastest ODI century by an Indian cricketer, beating Virat Kohli’s 52-ball record against the same opposition in 2013. Mandhana eventually scored 125 off just 63 balls, hitting 17 fours and five sixes to keep India alive in a daunting chase.
Australia had earlier set the stage with a record-equalling 412, powered by Beth Mooney’s sublime 138. The total was their highest ever against India, and it created an unforgettable clash. In the end, India fell short by 43 runs, bowled out for 369 in pursuit of 413. Still, the game created history as both teams combined for 781 runs, the highest aggregate ever in women’s ODIs, like England break records in men’s cricket.
Mandhana’s ton was more than just a statistical milestone. It matched Suzie Bates’ tally of 13 centuries and brought her closer to Meg Lanning’s record of 15. Her knock also underlined India’s growing ability to challenge world-beating sides like Australia. The Delhi game was not just about runs; it was about belief, intent, and lessons that will shape India’s journey towards the upcoming World Cup.
Why Mandhana’s 50-Ball Century Rewrites India’s ODI Script?
Smriti Mandhana’s century in Delhi was a true redefining moment for Indian cricket. She combined elegance with ruthless striking, mixing crisp cover drives with daring lofted shots. Every run she scored carried intent and clarity, forcing Australia to rethink their plans. The crowd erupted when she slog-swept Alana King for six to reach her hundred.
Her fifty-ball ton was the fastest by an Indian in ODIs, men or women. It also made her the second-fastest centurion in women’s ODIs, only behind Meg Lanning’s 45-ball masterclass in 2012. For India, this was more than just a record; it was proof of their ability to match the best in terms of scoring pace.
Mandhana’s innings also lifted her into rare company. She now has 13 ODI hundreds, equaling Suzie Bates, and sits just two behind Lanning. More importantly, this was her second consecutive ton, highlighting her ability to maintain form under pressure. Her partnership with Harmanpreet Kaur in Delhi was critical in keeping India’s chase alive, and it nearly turned into something historic.
The Shot Choices That Defined Her Century
What stood out most was Mandhana’s ability to pick her moments. She attacked only when gaps appeared and played with soft hands when needed. The slog sweep that brought her hundred summed up her balance of confidence and composure. Against short balls, she pulled with authority, never losing rhythm. This shot selection made the innings not just fast, but also beautifully calculated.
India’s Chase: Courage, Flaws, and Tactical Takeaways
India’s response to chasing 413 showed courage, depth, and ambition. Mandhana and Harmanpreet Kaur provided a rapid start, keeping the required run rate manageable. Their partnership gave India hope that the impossible could be achieved. Later, Deepti Sharma added a fighting 72 to keep the chase alive deep into the game.
However, the innings also exposed weaknesses that cannot be ignored. India’s fielding was sloppy, with more than 12 chances dropped during the series. These mistakes allowed Australia to pile on extra runs at crucial stages. Bowling too lacked bite, with Arundhati Reddy conceding heavily at over nine runs an over.
Despite these flaws, the chase showed character. India scored 369, the highest-ever score in a run chase in women’s ODIs. This proved they can go toe-to-toe with giants like Australia. But to convert such close calls into wins, they must improve consistency. Fielding drills, sharper catching practice, and more disciplined bowling strategies will be essential.
Fielding and Bowling Fixes India Needs Urgently
India’s bowlers struggled to find discipline on a flat Delhi track. Variations and yorkers were missing, especially in the death overs. Fielding was another glaring concern. Catches were dropped, and misfields allowed easy boundaries. To compete at the highest level, India must treat fielding as a strength rather than a weakness. Coaches should prioritize ground-fielding sessions and high-pressure catching drills to ensure improvement before the World Cup.
Australia’s 412 Blueprint: Depth, Timing, and Ruthless Execution
Australia’s total of 412 once again proved why they dominate world cricket. Beth Mooney’s 138 was a masterclass in controlled aggression. She found support from Georgia Voll and Ellyse Perry, who stitched crucial partnerships to keep momentum going. Together, they dismantled India’s bowling and created an unbeatable scoreboard pressure.
The total was Australia’s joint-highest in ODI history and their highest against India. What stood out was their batting strategy. They combined power hitting with clever strike rotation. No bowler was allowed to settle, and gaps were constantly exploited. This balance between aggression and patience is what makes Australia so difficult to stop.
Beyond the batting, Australia’s fielding and tactical discipline were world-class. They defended 412 with sharp catching and tight lines. Even when Mandhana and Harmanpreet threatened to take the game away, Australia held their nerve. Their blueprint of batting depth, fielding sharpness, and mental toughness has made them serial winners in ODIs.
Why Australia Remains the Benchmark in Women’s Cricket?
Australia’s system produces players ready for international cricket. They blend youth and experience seamlessly, ensuring every role is covered. Their mental toughness is unmatched, often turning tight games into wins. In Delhi, their ability to keep composure under Mandhana’s assault proved decisive. For India and others, Australia remains the yardstick for building a champion team like against India and England.
What This Delhi Classic Means for India’s World Cup Roadmap?
The Delhi ODI was more than just another high-scoring clash. It gave India a roadmap of where they stand and what needs fixing. Mandhana’s form is a huge positive, as she continues to dominate top-class attacks. Her leadership and consistency at the top will be crucial in India’s World Cup campaign.
But issues remain. Fielding lapses and inconsistent bowling remain non-negotiable weaknesses. Without fixing these, India cannot hope to beat Australia in knockout stages. The selectors now need to focus on balance — experienced batters like Mandhana and Harmanpreet, backed by bowlers who can handle pressure.
India’s near-miss chase of 369 also provides hope. It showed that with intent and execution, they can challenge the very best. Linking this to India’s historical growth in ODIs, including battles against Bangladesh (India vs Bangladesh timeline), shows clear improvement. The journey that began with the first Women’s ODI World Cup in 1973 (first women’s ODI World Cup) now feels closer to fulfillment.
Mandhana’s Role in India’s Next Big Push
Mandhana is not just a run-scorer but a leader by example. Her consistency allows others to play with freedom. Selectors must build around her, adding reliable bowlers and fielders who can complement her match-winning knocks. If India invests in the right support system, this Delhi innings could be the turning point toward their long-awaited World Cup victory.
Conclusion
The Delhi ODI was one of the most memorable matches in women’s cricket. Smriti Mandhana’s 50-ball century was a landmark achievement, breaking national records and raising global eyebrows. Beth Mooney’s 138 and Australia’s total of 412 showed why they are still the strongest side in the game. India’s 369 in pursuit proved both resilience and potential.
This match will be remembered not only for the records but also for the lessons. For India, fielding and bowling remain critical areas of concern. For Australia, it was a reminder of their unmatched depth and professionalism. The clash created a new benchmark for women’s cricket and inspired fans worldwide.
Mandhana’s innings will live long in memory. It gave India belief that even chasing 400-plus totals is not beyond them. If India can convert lessons into action, this knock may be remembered as the spark that finally led to their first ICC trophy since 1973.