Tracing Smriti Mandhana’s journey to the top with a record 18 centuries
Indian cricketer Smriti Mandhana set a new record for the most international centuries in women's cricket after scoring her 18th century against Hong Kong. She also surpassed Mithali Raj to become the highest run-scorer in women's international cricket history.
Why it matters
Mandhana's achievement marks a significant milestone in women's sports, highlighting the rapid evolution and increasing competitiveness of women's international cricket.
When Smriti Mandhana scored her 18th international century against Hong Kong at the Women’s T20 Asia Cup in Dubai on Thursday (September 3, 2026) — in just 57 balls — she had set a new record for scoring the highest number of centuries in women’s international cricket across all formats.
However, the century, which cemented India’s victory in the match and broke Australian Meg Lanning and South African Laura Wolvaardt’s jointly-held record of 17 international centuries, did not end Smriti’s record breaking spree.
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