Dubai, 04 September (H.S.):

Smriti Mandhana’s record-breaking century and an outstanding bowling performance helped India thrash Hong Kong by 137 runs in the Women’s Asia Cup 2026. With the emphatic victory, India secured its place in the semi-finals of the tournament.

Asked to bat first after losing the toss, India posted 193 for five in 20 overs. Mandhana produced a sensational knock of 124 runs off just 64 balls, smashing 14 fours and seven sixes. Shafali Verma contributed 28 runs off 17 balls, while Pratika Rawal scored 10, Richa Ghosh made 11 and captain Harmanpreet Kaur added 10.

Chasing the imposing target, Hong Kong struggled against the Indian bowling attack and were bowled out for just 56 in 16.2 overs. Deepti Sharma claimed three wickets, while Nandini Sharma, Shree Charani and Prema Rawat picked up two wickets each.

Mandhana Creates History

Mandhana’s 124-run innings was not only instrumental in India’s victory but was also packed with records. It was her 18th century in international cricket, enabling her to surpass Meg Lanning, who had 17 international centuries, and become the batter with the most centuries in women’s international cricket.

Mandhana also overtook former India captain Mithali Raj to become the highest run-scorer in women’s international cricket. According to the ICC, Mandhana’s aggregate has now risen to 10,880 international runs, while Mithali Raj finished her career with 10,868 runs.

---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar