India’s women’s cricket team etched their names in the history books by becoming only the third team ever to score over 400 runs in a One-Day International (ODI) match. This remarkable feat was achieved on January 15 in a match against Ireland, where India posted an imposing total of 435 runs. This score stands as the fourth-highest total in women’s ODI cricket history, surpassing their previous record of 370 runs set just three days earlier, also against Ireland.

Mandhana and Rawal Shine Bright

The record-breaking innings was anchored by sensational performances from Smriti Mandhana and Pratika Rawal, both of whom scored magnificent centuries. Mandhana, leading the team in the absence of regular captain Harmanpreet Kaur, smashed the fastest ODI century by an Indian woman, reaching the milestone in just 70 balls. She went on to score a blistering 135 runs off 80 deliveries, including 12 fours and 7 sixes.

Meanwhile, Pratika Rawal, a 24-year-old making her mark in only her second ODI series, struck her maiden century and turned it into a monumental 154 runs from 129 balls. Her innings featured 20 boundaries and a six. Together, Mandhana and Rawal put on an extraordinary opening partnership of 233 runs, the third-highest opening stand in Indian women’s ODI history.

Surpassing the Men’s ODI Record

India’s total of 435 runs surpassed the men’s ODI team’s record of 418, set against the West Indies in 2011. Contributions from other players added to the team’s dominance, with Richa Ghosh chipping in a quickfire 59 off 42 balls.

Ireland’s bowlers struggled to contain the Indian batters, with their performance marred by 29 extras. Despite their efforts, they were unable to prevent India from achieving this historic milestone, further underscoring India’s dominance.