Smriti Mandhana scripts history with thunderous T20 century against England

In a remarkable display of power-hitting and consistency, India’s women’s cricket team captain Smriti Mandhana smashed her maiden T20 century against England, guiding her side to a comprehensive 97-run victory in the opening match of the five-match T20 series at Trent Bridge, Nottingham.

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Opting to field first after winning the toss, England captain Nat Sciver-Brunt hoped to restrict India’s batters early on. However, Mandhana, opening alongside Shafali Verma, had other plans. The duo started aggressively, putting pressure on the English bowlers right from the outset. Although Verma was dismissed for 20, Mandhana carried on relentlessly, punishing the bowlers with exquisite timing and powerful shots all around the park.

Mandhana’s knock was a masterclass in T20 batting. She reached her hundred off just 51 balls, studded with 15 boundaries and three towering sixes. She eventually fell for 112 off 62 deliveries, helping India post a formidable total of 211 for 5 in the allotted 20 overs. Harleen Deol supported her skipper brilliantly with a crucial 43-run contribution.

In response, England’s batting faltered despite Sciver-Brunt’s gritty half-century. The rest of the lineup failed to withstand India’s disciplined bowling attack. Pacer Shricharani starred with the ball, claiming four wickets and breaking England’s backbone. The hosts were bundled out for just 113 runs, handing India a commanding 1-0 lead in the series.

Mandhana’s century is not just another milestone, it makes her the first Indian woman to score a century in all three formats. She also becomes only the fifth player in women’s international cricket to achieve this rare feat.