Indian batting sensation Smriti Mandhana has been honored with the prestigious ICC Women’s ODI Cricketer of the Year award for 2024. The announcement, made by the International Cricket Council on Monday, recognizes Mandhana’s extraordinary performances throughout the year, where she emerged as India’s most dependable batter in the 50-over format.
Second ICC Award for Mandhana
This marks the second time Mandhana has claimed this accolade, solidifying her status as one of the premier batters in women’s cricket. She edged past strong contenders like Sri Lanka’s Chamari Athapaththu, Australia’s Annabel Sutherland, and South Africa’s Laura Wolvaardt to secure the honor.
Exceptional Performances in 2024
Mandhana began her stellar year with consecutive centuries against South Africa, setting the tone for a record-breaking season. She later added a decisive ton in the series decider against New Zealand in October and followed it up with a resolute century against reigning ODI World Cup champions Australia in Perth. While India fell short in that match, Mandhana’s defiant knock stood out.
Across 2024, she scored 747 runs in just 13 innings, her highest tally in a calendar year. Mandhana ended the year as the leading run-scorer in women’s ODIs, surpassing notable names like South Africa’s Laura Wolvaardt (697), England’s Tammy Beaumont (554), and West Indies’ Hayley Matthews (469).
Impressive Stats and Records
Mandhana’s numbers in 2024 highlight her consistency and dominance:
- Total Runs: 747
- Average: 57.86
- Strike Rate: 95.15
- Centuries: 4
- Boundaries: 101 (95 fours and 6 sixes)
Her four centuries in a single year set a new record in women’s ODI cricket. Among her most remarkable innings was the 105 against Australia in December, where she single-handedly hit 14 boundaries, while the rest of the Indian lineup managed just seven combined.
Mandhana capped off the year with two half-centuries against the West Indies, scoring 91 and 53 in the three-match series.
Recognition for a Historic Year
Mandhana’s consistent performances against top-tier opponents have not only earned her individual accolades but also reinforced her importance to India’s batting lineup. Her ability to anchor innings while maintaining an aggressive approach has been key to India’s success in ODIs.
With this latest honor, Smriti Mandhana continues to cement her legacy as one of the finest cricketers in the women’s game, inspiring a new generation of players with her remarkable achievements.
