Asian Games 2026: Smriti Mandhana surpasses Suzie Bates to become women’s T20I cricket’s leading run-scorer
Indian cricketer Smriti Mandhana became the leading run-scorer in women's T20I history during an Asian Games semifinal against Bangladesh. She surpassed Suzie Bates' previous record of 4,758 runs.
Why it matters
This achievement cements Mandhana's status as one of the most prolific batters in the history of women's international cricket.
India opener Smriti Mandhana became the leading run-scorer in women's T20Is, surpassing New Zealand great Suzie Bates' tally of 4,758 runs during India's Asian Games semifinal against Bangladesh, on Sunday (September 20, 2026).
The 30-year-old elegant left-hander needed seven runs to break the record as she reached the landmark in the third over, hammering Bangladesh pacer Marufa Akter for back-to-back boundaries off the final two deliveries of the over.
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Mandhana eventually made a 19-ball 37, smashing five fours and two sixes, before her quickfire cameo ended on the final ball of powerplay.
Trying to finish the powerplay with another maximum, Mandhana miscued a slog sweep off Akter and was caught by Sobhana Mostary at deep mid-wicket.
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