Smriti Mandhana creates history, becomes leading run-scorer in Women's T20I

Smriti Mandhana (AFP Photo)

Smriti Mandhana made history in the Asian Games 2026 semi-final, becoming the highest run-scorer in women’s T20I cricket. The India opener achieved the milestones during a blistering start against Bangladesh, as India raced to 71/1 in the powerplay in their bid to book a place in the gold-medal match.India captain Harmanpreet Kaur won the toss and elected to bat first in the second semi-final. Mandhana and Shafali Verma provided an explosive start, putting Bangladesh’s bowlers under pressure from the outset.

Mandhana surpasses Suzie Bates

Mandhana struck 37 off just 19 deliveries, hitting five fours and two sixes before her innings ended in the final over of the powerplay. She attempted another slog sweep off Nahida Akter but mistimed the shot, with Sobhana Mostary completing the catch at deep mid-wicket.Despite her dismissal, Mandhana had already etched her name in the record books, moving past New Zealand’s Suzie Bates to become the leading run-scorer in women’s T20Is. She also became the first Indian woman to reach 100 sixes in the format.

Most runs in Women’s T20Is

India make a flying start

Shafali joined Mandhana in attacking Bangladesh’s bowling, helping India reach 71/1 in the first six overs. The opening stand gave India early momentum in a high-stakes contest, with a place in the gold-medal match on the line.

Playing XIs for India Women vs Bangladesh Women in the Asain Games Semi-final

India Women: Smriti Mandhana, Shafali Verma, Gunalan Kamalini, Harmanpreet Kaur (c), Richa Ghosh (wk), Bharti Fulmali, Deepti Sharma, Shreyanka Patil, Shree Charani, Nandani Sharma, Kranti Gaud.Bangladesh Women: Dilara Akter, Juairiya Ferdous, Sobhana Mostary, Nigar Sultana (wk/c), Shorna Akter, Sharmin Akhter, Shanjida Akter Meghla, Rabeya Khan, Nahida Akter, Marufa Akter, Sultana Khatun.