International Cricket Council (ICC) chairman Jay Shah has congratulated Indian opener Smriti Mandhana on becoming the leading run-scorer in women's T20 International cricket. Mandhana achieved this milestone during the Asian Games 2026 semifinal against Bangladesh on Sunday. Shah praised Mandhana's achievement in a post on X, saying she was setting new benchmarks for women's cricket and inspiring young players.
Mandhana surpassed New Zealand great Suzie Bates' tally of 4,758 runs to move to the top of the all-time women's T20I run-scoring list. The Indian left-hander reached the milestone during the second semifinal against Bangladesh at Korogi Sports Park. Mandhana's knock of 37 off 19 balls, which included five fours and two sixes, helped India make a brisk start alongside Shafali Verma.
The pair added 72 runs for the opening wicket before Mandhana was dismissed. India went on to defeat Bangladesh by 114 runs to book their place in the gold-medal match, where they will face Sri Lanka. The island nation secured its place in the final after beating Pakistan by eight wickets in the first semifinal.
Mandhana's achievement adds to her impressive international record. She has scored 10,964 runs across formats, while Harmanpreet Kaur is third on the women's T20I run charts with 4,287 runs. Suzie Bates is second with 4,758 runs, followed by Harmanpreet, Sri Lanka's Chamari Athapaththu (4,282) and New Zealand's Sophie Devine (3,817) in the top five.
Mandhana's record came as India continued their campaign for a gold medal at the Asian Games, with the team set to face Sri Lanka in the final. The Indian team has been performing well in the tournament, with Mandhana's achievement being a significant milestone.
Jay Shah's congratulatory message on X read: "Many congratulations to @mandhana_smriti for going top of the Women's T20I run charts (4,788 runs). By rewriting history, you are lifting women's cricket to new heights and setting the standard for young dreamers everywhere. Here's to many more milestones ahead!"
Mandhana's achievement is a significant milestone for women's cricket in India and around the world. Her record is an inspiration to young players and a testament to her hard work and dedication to the sport. The Indian team will look to continue their winning momentum in the final against Sri Lanka.
Key points
- Smriti Mandhana becomes the leading run-scorer in women's T20 International cricket with 4,788 runs.
- Jay Shah congratulates Mandhana on her achievement, saying she is lifting women's cricket to new heights.
- Mandhana's record adds to her impressive international record of 10,964 runs across formats.
