In a stunning display of power hitting at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, Smriti Mandhana rewrote the record books by smashing the fastest One-Day International (ODI) century ever recorded by an Indian woman. She achieved this incredible milestone in a mere 50 balls during the high-stakes series decider against Australia.
Mandhana’s breathtaking innings was crucial in keeping India’s hopes alive as they embarked on a formidable chase of 413 runs. Her performance brilliantly overshadowed Australian batter Beth Mooney’s equally impressive century of 138 earlier in the match.
This phenomenal 50-ball century is not just an Indian record, but also the second-fastest in the entire history of women’s ODI cricket. It ranks just behind the blistering 45-ball century scored by Australia’s Meg Lanning against New Zealand at North Sydney Oval in 2012.
The Indian vice-captain brought up her century in sensational fashion, dispatching a slog sweep off Alana King’s bowling high over deep midwicket for a magnificent six. The Delhi crowd erupted in a thunderous applause, celebrating her fourth ODI hundred against the Australian team.
With this incredible feat, Mandhana now boasts 13 ODI centuries, drawing level with New Zealand’s legendary batter Suzie Bates. She stands proudly as the second-highest century-scorer in women’s ODI history, with only Meg Lanning (15 centuries) ahead of her.
Remarkably, Mandhana has now scored back-to-back ODI centuries on two separate occasions, a rare achievement shared only with England’s prolific batter, Tammy Beaumont.
Demonstrating consistent brilliance, Mandhana has registered four ODI centuries in 2025, mirroring her outstanding performance from 2024. This tally for the current year is matched only by South Africa’s Tazmin Brits, who also has four centuries to her name.
Her ongoing exceptional form is undeniably vital for India as they aim not only for a historic series win but also to successfully complete this monumental run chase.
Adding to her list of accolades in this very match, Mandhana had previously set another record: the fastest half-century by an Indian batter in women’s ODIs.