India’s star opener Smriti Mandhana has etched her name deeper into cricketing history. During the Women’s ODI World Cup 2025 final against South Africa, she became India’s highest run-getter in a single edition of the tournament, surpassing the legendary Mithali Raj’s 2017 record.
Mandhana’s elegant knock of 45 off 58 balls in the final at DY Patil Stadium was more than just a solid start — it was the culmination of a consistent, dominating campaign. Her innings pushed her total beyond Mithali’s 409 runs from the 2017 edition, reaffirming her stature as one of the most dependable openers in women’s cricket.
By the end of the final, Mandhana had amassed 434 runs in nine innings, with a best score of 109 and an impressive average of 54.25. Her near run-a-ball strike rate of 99.08 reflects the aggressive intent that has defined India’s campaign throughout the World Cup.
Despite her record-breaking feat, the southpaw narrowly missed another major milestone — becoming only the third Indian batter to cross 1,000 runs in Women’s ODI World Cups. So far, that elite club includes Harmanpreet Kaur and Mithali Raj.
Mandhana’s brilliance in the tournament has been one of the key reasons behind India’s success. Her partnership with young opener Shafali Verma in the final set the perfect tone for the team. The duo stitched together a 104-run stand off just 106 balls, blending composure with aggression. Verma’s half-century off 49 balls complemented Mandhana’s class at the other end, keeping South Africa under pressure from the start.
However, Mandhana’s fluent innings came to an end in the 18th over when Chloe Tryon found her edge, leading to a catch by wicketkeeper Sinalo Jafta. Her dismissal at a crucial stage momentarily silenced the Indian camp but the foundation she laid allowed the middle order to continue building momentum.
Following Mandhana’s wicket, Jemimah Rodrigues, India’s hero from the semi-final, took charge to maintain the scoring rhythm. By the 29th over, India had already crossed 171 runs, keeping hopes high for a commanding total in the final.
Throughout the World Cup, Mandhana’s performance has been nothing short of exemplary. From her match-winning hundred to her crucial starts in pressure games, she has shown maturity, precision, and passion — the very traits that have made her the face of Indian women’s cricket in recent years.
Her record-breaking campaign has also underlined a changing era in Indian cricket — one where power-hitting meets consistency, and young stars like Verma and Rodrigues rise alongside seasoned icons like Mandhana and Harmanpreet.
As the final unfolds, one thing is certain: Smriti Mandhana’s dominance at the top order has not only carried India into the final but also redefined excellence in women’s cricket. Her 2025 World Cup run will be remembered as a masterclass in discipline, flair, and historic achievement.
