Indian women's cricket team vice-captain Smriti Mandhana has carved her name into the annals of the sport's history. The prolific left-handed batter achieved a monumental career milestone during the third and final ODI against England in Mumbai on December 28, 2024. She became only the fourth player in the history of women's One Day International cricket to amass 4000 runs.
A Landmark Innings at the Wankhede
The historic moment arrived during a challenging run chase. India, set a target of 269 runs by England, needed a strong start. Mandhana, opening the innings, provided just that. She played a composed knock, and in the process, crossed the coveted 4000-run mark in the 50-over format. Her innings was crucial in setting a platform for the Indian team's effort.
This achievement places the 28-year-old batter in an exceptionally elite group. She now stands alongside the absolute legends of women's cricket. The only other players to have reached this pinnacle before her are:
- Mithali Raj (India) - 7805 runs
- Charlotte Edwards (England) - 5992 runs
- Suzie Bates (New Zealand) - 4814 runs
Mandhana's entry into this exclusive club underscores her consistency and class as one of the premier batters of her generation.
The Journey to 4000 Runs
Smriti Mandhana's journey to this landmark has been marked by elegant strokeplay and match-winning performances since her debut. Known for her flamboyant cover drives and aggressive intent at the top of the order, she has been a cornerstone of the Indian batting line-up for years. Reaching 4000 runs is a testament to her skill, fitness, and ability to perform across conditions and against various opponents.
Her milestone is even more significant considering the context of the match—a high-stakes series decider against a top team like England. Achieving it on home soil at the iconic Wankhede Stadium adds a special chapter to her growing legacy. While the full details of her final score in that innings are part of the match report, the focus remains firmly on the career-spanning achievement of the 4000-run barrier.
What This Means for Indian Cricket
Mandhana's historic feat is a massive boost for Indian women's cricket. It highlights the development of world-class talent within the system and serves as a huge inspiration for young aspiring cricketers across the country. As the team's vice-captain, her leadership by example, scoring big runs, is invaluable.
This achievement solidifies her status as a modern great and a key pillar for the Indian team as they build towards future global tournaments. Being in the same conversation as Mithali Raj, a former captain and icon of the game, is an honour that speaks volumes about Mandhana's impact.
The cricketing world has taken note. Fans and experts alike are celebrating this milestone, recognizing the hard work and dedication behind it. As Smriti Mandhana continues her career, the focus will now shift to the next targets, with the 5000-run mark undoubtedly on the horizon for one of India's finest sporting ambassadors.
