The promising opener Smriti Mandhana has been significant for Indian women’s team since breaking in the national fold.
In the opener of the Tri-nation Twenty20 International series, the elegant batter has dictated the terms against Australian bowlers in Mumbai.
Although Smriti struck 67 runs in a losing cause, she subsequently went on to register a fresh record in the women’s cricket for India.
Moreover, Smriti has eventually surpassed the record of fastest fifty set by One-day International skipper Mithali Raj.
Also, the left-handed stylish batter Smriti took just 30 deliveries to achieve the feat. She has registered the fastest fifty in women’s fold. Earlier, Mithali had set the record with 36-ball 50.
The breezy innings from Smriti saw her smashing 11 boundaries and two maximums. She faced 41 balls for registering her highest individual scored in the T20 fold.
However, her gusty knock couldn’t save her side from the inevitable loss against Australia. The Sothern Stars thrashed hosts by six wickets on March 22.
India was restricted to 152 for five in 20 allotted overs, as Australia chased down the target in 18.1 overs with the loss of four wickets.
Opener Beth Mooney was the top-scorer for visitors with 32-ball 45. Meg Lanning smashed unbeaten 35 off 25 as Elyse Villani struck 33-ball 39.
Pertinently, India women’s team is led by all-rounder Harmanpreet Kaur.
Moreover, the young gun Smriti Mandhana rued the loss to Australia. She holds herself responsible for the letdown against Rachael Haynes-led Australia.
Smriti also cited the example of senior players while stating the side has not learned from their previous mistakes.
The deputy of Harmanpreet, Smriti reiterated they fall well short of setting the total against a quality batting-heavy side Australia.
Smriti had already praised Mithali for her splendid efforts in gelling the unit in the 50-over fold.
Simultaneously, the top-order batter believes she has to learn a lot from her juniors after hard-fought fifty.
The Women in Blue are scheduled to face Heather Knight-led England in the all-important fixture on March 25 (Sunday) in Mumbai.
However, in the first two practice games, on March 19 and 20 respectively, England Women registered convincing victories over India.
Concluding, the grand finale of the triangular series is slated for March 31 at Brabourne Stadium in Mumbai.
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