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Smriti Mandhana Becomes World No. 1 in ICC Women’s ODI Rankings After Six Years
Smriti Mandhana Returns to the Top of ODI Batting Charts
In a significant milestone for Indian women’s cricket, Smriti Mandhana has reclaimed the coveted No. 1 spot in the ICC Women’s ODI batting rankings, surpassing South Africa’s Laura Wolvaardt. This marks a historic return to the top for the Indian opener, who last held the position back in 2019.
The International Cricket Council (ICC) released its latest ODI rankings for women’s cricketers today, and Mandhana’s rise has caught the attention of the global cricketing community. Her consistent performances in the recently concluded Tri-Nation Women’s Series in Colombo helped her leapfrog Wolvaardt, who had an underwhelming series against the West Indies.
Dominant Tri-Series Campaign Propels Mandhana to No. 1
Mandhana was in sublime form throughout the India Women’s Tri-Nation series, amassing 264 runs in five matches at an impressive average of 52.80 and a strike rate of 90.41. She anchored the Indian innings repeatedly and played a match-winning knock in the final, where India Women secured a massive 97-run victory over Sri Lanka Women at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo.
🔗 Read Also: India Women Clinch Tri-Series Final With Smriti Mandhana’s Masterclass
Her outstanding consistency at the top of the order and ability to dominate spin and pace alike have now rewarded her with the top ICC ranking in ODI batting, an honor she has reclaimed after a six-year gap.
Wolvaardt and Sciver-Brunt Now Share Second Position
Meanwhile, Laura Wolvaardt, who was previously holding the top spot, slid down after losing 19 rating points due to average performances in the recently concluded ODI series against the West Indies. The elegant South African batter managed only 27 and 28 runs in her two innings, resulting in a dip in her ICC ranking.
She now shares the second position on the list with England’s Nat Sciver-Brunt, another consistent performer in the women’s ODI circuit.
Other Significant Movers in Latest ICC Rankings
The updated ICC Women’s ODI rankings also saw several other players making substantial gains:
South Africa’s Gains
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Tazmin Brits: Climbed five spots to reach 27th position.
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Sune Luus: Rose seven positions to stand at 42nd.
West Indies’ Movers
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Shemaine Campbelle: Advanced seven spots, now ranked 62nd.
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Qiana Joseph: Moved up 12 places to reach 67th.
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Afy Fletcher: Jumped four positions, securing the 19th spot among bowlers.
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Nonkululeko Mlaba: Gained six places, now ranked 23rd.
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Chloe Tryon: Improved by six spots, now placed 45th.
These movements reflect both individual brilliance and team performance across the recent international series involving India, South Africa, and West Indies.
📘 Official ICC Player Rankings – Women’s ODI
Smriti Mandhana’s Legacy Continues to Grow
At just 28 years old, Smriti Mandhana has already achieved what few can dream of. She has been the face of Indian women’s cricket for nearly a decade now, and her rise back to the top is a testament to her determination, discipline, and technical prowess.
Her performance in Colombo once again showcased her ability to anchor an innings, accelerate when required, and absorb pressure — qualities that define a world-class batter.
India Women’s ODI setup continues to evolve, but Mandhana’s experience and leadership remain invaluable assets as the team gears up for future bilateral series and ICC events.
Smriti Mandhana’s return to the No. 1 ODI ranking after six years is not just a personal triumph but a moment of pride for Indian cricket fans worldwide. Her resurgence, powered by class and consistency, sends a strong message ahead of future international assignments.
As women’s cricket continues to gain global momentum, players like Mandhana are not just rewriting records — they are inspiring generations.
With her at the top of the rankings once again, India Women look poised for a dominant run in ODI cricket.
