Smriti Mandhana cemented her place in cricketing history with a brilliant century during the third ODI against Australia at the WACA Stadium on Wednesday, December 11. Chasing a challenging target of 299 to avoid a series whitewash, Mandhana’s fighting knock stood out as a lone beacon in India’s innings.

After opting to bowl first, India reduced the hosts to 78-4, thanks to a fiery spell by Arundhati Reddy. However, a century from Annabel Sutherland and half-centuries by Ashleigh Gardner and Tahlia McGrath helped Australia recover and post a formidable total of 298.

In response, Mandhana scored 105 runs off 109 balls, reaching her century in 103 deliveries. She forged a crucial 118-run partnership with Harleen Deol for the second wicket, but India’s batting line-up crumbled following Deol’s dismissal. Despite her valiant efforts, the Women in Blue fell short, highlighting Mandhana’s remarkable consistency and resilience under pressure.