Indian opener Smriti Mandhana scripted history during the Women’s Asia Cup 2026, surpassing legendary Indian batter Mithali Raj to become the highest run-scorer in women’s international cricket across all three formats. Mandhana achieved the landmark during India’s Group A clash against Hong Kong in Dubai, producing a sensational 124 off 64 balls. Her innings included 14 fours and seven sixes, taking her international tally to 10,880 runs. Mithali Raj had finished her career with 10,868 runs.
Mandhana’s Record-Breaking Knock
Mandhana initially played a measured innings before accelerating after reaching her half-century. She eventually brought up a spectacular century and finished with 124 runs, giving India a strong platform. Her performance also helped India post 193/5 in their 20 overs. Hong Kong were then bowled out for just 56 runs in 16.2 overs, giving India a comprehensive 137-run victory and securing their place in the Asia Cup semi-finals.
Surpasses Mithali Raj’s Long-Standing Record
Before this match, Mithali Raj held the record for the most runs in women’s international cricket with 10,868 runs accumulated across Tests, ODIs and T20Is. Mandhana moved beyond that mark during her century and ended the match with 10,880 international runs. The milestone puts her at the top of the all-time women’s international run-scoring chart.
Top Run-Scorers in Women’s International Cricket
- Smriti Mandhana – 10,880
- Mithali Raj – 10,868
- Suzie Bates – 10,740
- Charlotte Edwards – 10,273
- Stafanie Taylor – 10,007
Another Major Record for Mandhana
The 124-run innings also brought Mandhana her second T20I century, making her the first Indian woman to score two centuries in women’s T20 internationals. Her score is also the highest individual innings in Women’s T20 Asia Cup history, surpassing Sri Lankan batter Chamari Athapaththu’s previous record of 119 not out. Mandhana’s century was her 18th international hundred, making her the leading century-maker in women’s international cricket as well.
Mithali Raj Congratulates Mandhana
After Mandhana broke her record, Mithali Raj congratulated the Indian batter and praised her achievement. Mandhana has previously spoken about looking up to Mithali, making the passing of the record particularly significant in Indian women’s cricket. India’s next Asia Cup match is scheduled against Pakistan on September 5, with Mandhana now entering the contest as the newest record-holder in women’s international cricket.
