Smriti Mandhana’s blistering century in the third ODI against Ireland not only marked a personal achievement but also helped India seal a clean sweep in the three-match series. Her remarkable knock of 135 runs off just 80 balls was the standout performance in the match, as India dominated the Irish side and won by a massive margin. Mandhana’s swashbuckling knock came with an intent to assert dominance and play with freedom, which is something she emphasized when reflecting on her innings.
Mandhana’s aggressive approach was evident from the moment she stepped onto the field. In an interview post-match, she explained that her primary focus was to play her natural game and express herself fully. “I wanted to go out and play my shots,” she said. This fearless approach to batting is a hallmark of Mandhana’s playing style, and it was on full display as she hammered 12 fours and seven sixes in her knock. This century was not only a statement of intent but also a demonstration of her confidence and growing ability to dominate bowling attacks at will.
The innings was not just about the runs, but the manner in which Mandhana achieved them. She looked fluent and effortless, dispatching the ball to all parts of the ground with ease. Her ability to pick the gaps and find boundaries even in tough conditions is what makes her one of the most exciting batters in the world. Mandhana’s century was the fastest by an Indian woman in ODIs, highlighting her power and strokeplay at its peak. The milestone was a testament to the hard work and preparation she had put in, with a focus on becoming more aggressive in her approach.
Mandhana’s opening partnership with Pratika Rawal was pivotal in setting up the match for India. The duo’s 233-run opening stand was a record-breaking partnership that steered India to a formidable total. Rawal, who also scored a century in the match, played the role of an anchor while Mandhana took charge at the other end. Their partnership was a perfect blend of aggression and stability, allowing India to post a huge total and put pressure on the Irish bowlers.
Reflecting on her innings, Mandhana spoke about how important it is for the team to maintain momentum, especially after a strong start to the year. India has been on a winning spree, having already completed a 3-0 series win over the West Indies earlier, and Mandhana’s consistency at the top has been crucial in these successes. “It feels good to be in such form, but we need to ensure that we continue this momentum, especially as we prepare for tougher challenges ahead,” she said. This year has seen a shift in the Indian women’s cricket team’s approach, with players like Mandhana taking more responsibility and leading from the front. Her aggressive mindset, coupled with her composure under pressure, has made her an invaluable asset to the team.
India’s dominance in the series against Ireland was also a reflection of their depth and versatility, with the batting order being led by such an accomplished opener. Mandhana’s ability to accelerate the game and make a statement through her batting has redefined the opening position in the team. Her approach sets the tone for the rest of the batting lineup, which follows her example of playing positive cricket.