Smriti Mandhana scored 124 runs off 64 balls against Hong Kong at the Dubai International Stadium on September 3, helping India post 193-5 before bowling out Hong Kong for 56 in 16.2 overs. The victory by 137 runs secured India's place in the Women's Asia Cup semifinals [1, 2, 3].
With her innings, Mandhana became the all-time leading run-scorer in women's international cricket, accumulating 10,880 runs and surpassing Mithali Raj's previous record of 10,868 runs [1, 2, 3]. The 30-year-old vice-captain of the Indian team now holds the record for the most international centuries as well, with 18 centuries, overtaking players like Meg Lanning and Laura Wolvaardt who each have 17 [1, 2, 3].
Mandhana praised Raj as a legend and role model. Reflecting on breaking the record during her innings, she said, "Until I was batting, I didn't know what record because I didn't know what exact runs [I had scored]. But, looking back, I'd say a very good day for Indian cricket" [1]. She added, "I didn't know all of this happened. But I love batting and am happy to contribute. There are days when you hit balls from the stumps. There are days when you edge one. It's extremely unpredictable" [2].
Mandhana’s powerful innings featured 14 fours and 7 sixes. She acknowledged Hong Kong’s disciplined bowling early on, saying, "They were disciplined in the powerplay, bowled really well and the energy they showed was something we'll learn from" [2, 3].
Mithali Raj lauded Mandhana’s achievement, stating, "I've watched you grow from a young player into one of the finest batters India has produced. To see you go past my record and become the highest run-scorer in international cricket is a moment I'm genuinely proud of. Here's to many more runs and milestones. Keep going!" [1].
The win secured India’s spot in the semifinals of the Women's Asia Cup as of September 4 [3]. Mandhana described her milestone simply as "just the start" [3].
