India record their highest-ever total in women’s T20I cricket history
In a thrilling display of batting prowess, the Indian women’s cricket team created history on Sunday by recording their highest-ever total in women’s T20I cricket. The team put up a staggering total of 221/2, with openers Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma leading the charge. This impressive total surpasses their previous highest score of 217/4, which was recorded against West Indies on December 19, 2024.
The match, which was the 4th T20I against Sri Lanka, saw India’s batting lineup click into top gear from the very start. Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma, two of the most talented young batswomen in the world, opened the innings for India and set the tone for the rest of the match. Mandhana, known for her elegant strokeplay, scored 80 runs off just 48 balls, including 12 boundaries and 2 sixes. Verma, on the other hand, was equally impressive, scoring 79 runs off 46 balls, with 11 boundaries and 3 sixes.
The partnership between Mandhana and Verma was the highlight of the match, as the two batswomen took the Sri Lankan bowling attack to task. They added 159 runs for the first wicket, laying the foundation for India’s massive total. The opening partnership was finally broken when Verma was dismissed in the 15th over, but by then, the damage had already been done.
The rest of the Indian batting lineup continued to build on the strong foundation laid by Mandhana and Verma. The middle order batswomen, including Harmanpreet Kaur and Jemimah Rodrigues, chipped in with useful contributions, ensuring that the momentum was maintained throughout the innings.
India’s total of 221/2 is not only their highest-ever total in women’s T20I cricket, but it also ranks among the highest totals in the history of the format. The team’s batting performance was a testament to their skill, fitness, and determination, and it will undoubtedly give them a huge confidence boost as they look to take on tougher challenges in the future.
The Indian women’s cricket team has been making rapid strides in recent years, with a number of talented young players emerging on the scene. The team’s performance on Sunday was a reflection of the hard work and dedication of the players, coaches, and support staff, and it bodes well for the future of women’s cricket in India.
As the team looks to build on this impressive performance, they will be aware of the challenges that lie ahead. The women’s T20I format is highly competitive, with a number of strong teams vying for dominance. However, with their current form and momentum, India will be confident of making a strong impact in upcoming tournaments and series.
In conclusion, India’s record-breaking total of 221/2 in women’s T20I cricket is a significant milestone in the history of the team. The performance of Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma was outstanding, and it will be remembered for a long time to come. As the team looks to the future, they will be aware of the need to continue working hard and pushing themselves to new heights.
Match Details:
- India Women vs Sri Lanka Women, 4th T20I
- India Women won the toss and chose to bat
- India Women’s total: 221/2 (20 overs)
- Smriti Mandhana: 80 (48 balls, 12 boundaries, 2 sixes)
- Shafali Verma: 79 (46 balls, 11 boundaries, 3 sixes)