Smriti Mandhana Rockets Past Kohli’s Record With Lightning ODI Century

In a historic moment in Indian cricket, Smriti Mandhana shattered the record for the fastest One Day International (ODI) century by an Indian, breaking the long-standing record held by Virat Kohli. Mandhana’s explosive century came off just 50 balls in the third and deciding ODI against Australia at Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi, on September 20, 2025. This remarkable feat places her as the fastest Indian cricketer—men or women—to achieve a hundred in ODIs, a record Kohli held since 2013 with a 52-ball ton.

 

The Record-Breaking Innings

Chasing a mammoth target of 413 set by Australia, Mandhana played with extraordinary aggression and composure. Facing the pressure of a record chase, she smashed a whirlwind century, including 17 fours and 5 sixes, before eventually getting out for 125 runs off just 63 balls. The innings was a showcase of power and precision, highlighted by a massive six over midwicket for her century, immediately breaking Kohli’s decade-old record.

 

Her 50-ball century is the second-fastest century in women’s ODI cricket history, only behind Meg Lanning’s 45-ball hundred against New Zealand in 2012. Mandhana’s feat also surpassed her own previous fastest hundred record, which was 70 balls against Ireland, breaking it by a significant margin of 20 balls.

 

Context of the Match

The match was the final game of a three-match series, with India striving for a series win. Despite Mandhana’s heroic efforts, India fell short, finishing at 369 runs and losing the series decider by 43 runs. However, Mandhana’s innings was a bright spot, proving her mettle on the international stage and elevating her as one of the finest hitters in Indian cricket.

 

Her innings also saw a solid partnership with captain Harmanpreet Kaur that fueled India’s challenging chase attempt. Mandhana’s leadership and dynamism at the crease have become instrumental in India’s batting arsenal.

 

Historical Significance and Milestones

Fastest ODI Hundred by an Indian: Mandhana’s 50-ball hundred supersedes Virat Kohli’s 52-ball record from 2013.

 

Second-Fastest in Women’s ODI History: Only Meg Lanning’s 45-ball century surpasses Mandhana’s speed.

 

Record Holder for Fastest Hundred in Indian Women’s ODIs: Mandhana herself held the previous record set at 70 balls.

 

Thirteenth ODI Century: She now equals New Zealand’s Suzie Bates for the second-most centuries in women’s ODIs.

 

Back-to-Back ODI Centuries: Mandhana has scored consecutive ODI hundreds twice, a rare feat in Indian women’s cricket.

 

Praise and Recognition

The cricket fraternity and fans worldwide lauded Mandhana’s career-defining innings. Analysts praised her fearless approach, impeccable timing, and powerful shot selection against a strong Australian bowling attack. Former cricketers likened her impact to the game-changers who not only break records but also inspire a new generation of women cricketers.

 

Mandhana’s Rising Legacy

At just 29 years old, Mandhana has already established herself as a pivotal figure in Indian cricket’s resurgence on the global front. With several records under her belt and a poised demeanor, she continues to be a beacon of excellence for aspiring cricketers across the country.

 

As India prepares for future global tournaments, Mandhana’s form and determination provide hope for continued success and milestones in both women’s and overall Indian cricket history.

 

Sources: ESPNcricinfo, Cricbuzz, India Today, Hindustan Times, NDTV Sports