Smriti Mandhana Creates History Against Sri Lanka – Breaks Multiple Records, Surpasses Harmanpreet Kaur

Indian women's cricket team opener Smriti Mandhana delivered a memorable performance in the final of the Tri-Nation Women's ODI Series, scoring a brilliant 116 runs against Sri Lanka on Sunday.

Her century - the 11th of her ODI career - not only guided India to a commanding total but also saw her script several major records in women's cricket.

Mandhana's innings, studded with two sixes, was a mix of class and aggression. With these two maximums, the 27-year-old became the leading six-hitter for India in Women's ODIs, surpassing captain Harmanpreet Kaur, who had previously held the record with 53 sixes.

That wasn't the only milestone Mandhana crossed during her sublime knock. She now ranks third on the all-time list for most centuries in Women's ODIs, trailing only Meg Lanning of Australia (15) and Suzie Bates of New Zealand (13). By doing so, she overtook England's Tammy Beaumont, who had been in third place.

Currently playing her 102nd ODI, Mandhana has amassed 4473 runs at a stellar average of 46.59, which includes 31 half-centuries and now 11 tons. Her consistency and match-winning ability continue to underline her status as one of the most reliable batters in the modern game.

In the final, India opted to bat first and got off to a solid start thanks to the opening pair of Mandhana and Prateek Rawal, who added 70 runs for the first wicket. Rawal contributed a handy 30 runs, allowing Mandhana to play her natural game.

Post Rawal's dismissal, Mandhana stitched a crucial 120-run partnership with Harleen Deol for the second wicket, taking India to a strong position. By the end of the innings, India posted a massive 342/7 in 50 overs, putting Sri Lanka under immense pressure in the chase.

Mandhana's knock not only earned plaudits for its elegance and control but also marked another leap in her already illustrious career. As Indian women's cricket continues to grow, performances like these reaffirm Mandhana's place among the game's greats.