Sun Sep 14 08:30:00 UTC 2025: **News Article:**

**Mandhana Climbs ODI Run-Scoring Charts, India Sets Sights on World Cup Prep with Series Opener**

**Mullanpur, India –** Smriti Mandhana etched her name further into cricket history during the first ODI against Australia at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium today, surpassing New Zealand’s Amy Satterthwaite to become the seventh-highest run-scorer in Women’s One Day Internationals.

The stylish opener played a crucial knock of 58 runs off 63 balls, featuring six boundaries and two sixes, providing a solid foundation for India’s innings. This innings propelled her to a career total of 4,646 runs in 106 ODIs, boasting an impressive average of 46.46. Her record includes 11 centuries and 32 half-centuries.

India’s innings started brightly with a strong 114-run opening partnership between Mandhana and debutant Pratika Rawal, who impressed with a gritty 64 off 96 balls. Solid contributions from the middle order, including a quickfire 54 from Harleen Deol and a brisk 25 from Richa Ghosh, helped India reach a competitive total of 281/7 in their 50 overs. Australia’s Megan Schutt was the pick of the bowlers, taking 2 wickets for 45 runs.

While the match marked a milestone for captain Harmanpreet Kaur, celebrating her 150th ODI appearance, she fell cheaply for 11 runs.

With a target of 282 to defend, India is now focused on securing a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. The series is viewed as crucial preparation ahead of the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup, scheduled to begin on September 30th.

Read More