Mandhana’s fastest ODI ton for India ends Australia’s 13-match winning streak, giving India their first home ODI win against the Aussies since 2007.
Mullanpur (Punjab), September 17 — It was a day of glory, grit, and history for Indian women’s cricket. Smriti Mandhana’s dazzling century, combined with a spirited bowling performance, propelled India to a thumping 102-run victory over Australia, marking their first home ODI triumph over the Aussies since 2007.
Australia’s dominance in women’s ODIs came crashing down in Mullanpur as their 13-match winning streak was snapped in emphatic fashion. This defeat — by 102 runs — is also Australia’s heaviest loss in ODI history, underlining the magnitude of India’s win.
Batting first, India posted a strong 292-run total. Mandhana set the stage alight with her trademark elegance and aggression. Partnering with Pratika Rawal for a quick 70-run opening stand, she built her innings with poise before cutting loose. Harleen Deol and Harmanpreet Kaur departed cheaply, but Mandhana found support in Deepti Sharma.
The left-hander smashed her fastest ODI century for India, reaching the landmark in style just a day after becoming the world’s No.1 ODI batter. Her knock — her 12th ODI ton — put her on par with England’s Tammy Beaumont, but Mandhana achieved the feat in just 106 innings, quicker than Beaumont’s 130.
After Mandhana’s dismissal, Deepti (40 off 53), Richa Ghosh (29 off 33), and Sneh Rana (24 off 18) provided crucial late flourishes to carry India to 292.
In response, Australia faltered from the very beginning. Georgia Voll fell for a duck, skipper Alyssa Healy managed only nine, and Beth Mooney’s resistance ended at 18. Ellyse Perry (44) and Annabel Sutherland (45) were the only batters to offer some fight, but once they departed, India’s bowlers ran through the tail with ease.
Australia were bundled out for just 190 runs, falling short by 102. For India, it was not just a win — it was a statement of intent.
The three-match ODI series now stands level at 1-1, with the decider set to be played in New Delhi on Saturday.