Did Smriti Mandhana Just Reclaim the No. 1 Spot in ICC Women’s ODI Batting Rankings?
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Synopsis
As the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 approaches, Smriti Mandhana shines brightly by reclaiming the No. 1 spot in the ICC Women’s ODI batting rankings, outpacing England's Nat Sciver-Brunt. Her stellar performance against Australia not only boosts her rankings but also ignites excitement for Team India's upcoming matches.
Key Takeaways
- Smriti Mandhana reclaims No. 1 position in ICC Women’s ODI batting rankings.
- India faces Australia in a three-match ODI series.
- Top-order batters Rawal and Deol also performed well.
- Australia's strong batting led to their win in the first ODI.
- Mandhana's performance is a morale booster for Team India.
New Delhi, Sep 16 (NationPress) As the countdown to the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 begins, Team India vice captain Smriti Mandhana has once again claimed the coveted top position in the latest ICC Women’s ODI batting rankings. The talented opening batter surpassed England's captain Nat Sciver-Brunt following a stellar half-century performance against Australia in the series opener on Sunday.
Mandhana scored 58 runs off 63 balls as India faced Australia in the first ODI of the three-match series at New Chandigarh. Her impressive innings earned her seven rating points, placing her four points ahead of the England captain.
This achievement bodes well for Team India as they prepare for the 13th edition of the ICC Women’s World Cup. Meanwhile, Mandhana’s opening partner, Pratika Rawal, also made a significant move up the rankings after her half-century, climbing four spots to the 42nd rank, while Harleen Deol ascended to 43rd following her 54 runs against Australia.
Following their eight-wicket victory over India, several Australian batters also gained valuable rating points. Beth Mooney surged to the fifth position from eighth after her remarkable 77 runs off 74 balls in the series opener.
Annabel Sutherland (up four spots) and Phoebe Litchfield (up 13 spots) now share the 25th rank. Notably, Sutherland scored an unbeaten 54, while Litchfield was the top scorer for her team with an impressive 88 runs off 80 balls.
In the recently concluded match, India set a target of 281 runs in their 50 overs, with top-order batters Rawal, Mandhana, and Deol contributing half-centuries. However, it wasn't enough to defend against Australia, who secured an eight-wicket win.
The Indian bowlers struggled to contain the visiting side as the Alyssa Healy-led Australia kicked off their campaign with a win, taking a 1-0 lead. Litchfield’s 88-run innings was pivotal in Australia’s successful chase, complemented by Mooney’s 77 runs.
Point of View
Smriti Mandhana's resurgence as the top-ranked ODI batter is not just a personal achievement; it symbolizes the growing strength of women's cricket in India. As the team prepares for the World Cup, this ranking is a crucial morale booster, highlighting the talent and potential within the squad as they aim for global success.
NationPress
02/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Smriti Mandhana's ranking mean for her career?
Reclaiming the No. 1 spot enhances Mandhana's reputation and showcases her skills on an international level, significantly impacting her career.
How does this ranking affect Team India?
Mandhana's top ranking boosts the team's confidence and highlights their potential as they prepare for upcoming tournaments, especially the ICC Women’s World Cup.
What were the match highlights against Australia?
India set a target of 281 runs, but Australia chased it down successfully, with Litchfield and Mooney leading the scoring efforts.
