Smriti Mandhana Becomes First Indian Woman to Score 5,000 ODI Runs
Smriti Mandhana crossed the historic 5,000-run milestone in Women's ODIs during India's series against Australia, becoming the first Indian woman to achieve the landmark.
Historic Milestone for Women's Cricket
When Smriti Mandhana clipped a ball through mid-wicket for two runs at the Sydney Cricket Ground, the scoreboard flashed a number that no Indian woman had ever reached before: 5,000 ODI runs. The left-hander from Sangli removed her helmet, raised her bat to all four corners of the ground, and allowed herself a rare moment of emotional celebration.
"It hasn't really sunk in yet," she admitted later. "I was just trying to play each ball on its merit, as I always do. To have this recognition means the world."
A Career in Numbers
- ODI matches: 128
- Runs: 5,008
- Average: 44.7
- Strike Rate: 92.3
- Centuries: 8
- Half-centuries: 34
The Making of a Legend
Mandhana's journey from Maharashtra's domestic circuit to becoming India's greatest ever women's batter has been defined by elegance, consistency and big-match temperament. Her cover drive — considered by many the most beautiful shot in women's cricket — has broken bowling attacks across five continents.
What This Means for Women's Cricket in India
Beyond the personal achievement, Mandhana's milestone reflects a fundamental shift in the status of women's cricket in India. From playing to sparse crowds a decade ago, India women now fill stadiums, command significant media attention and inspire a generation of young girls to pick up a bat.