Commentary: Smriti Mandhana’s century proves women’s cricket is the future

India’s star batter, Smriti Mandhana, celebrates reaching a century during the One Day International at the Cricket World Cup, showcasing her aggressive style at the crease. (Credit: Getty Images)

Mandhana's bat never had much of a voice, but this week it roared. Her century against Australia was not a personal achievement — it was a statement. 

“The last two hundreds which I got against Australia were in the losing cause, happy that we won the match today,” said Mandhana in a post-match presentation after she guided India to Mullanpur triumph. 

Her statement was as cutting as her cover drive. Triumph is greater than individual glory. 

“The game plan was simple. In the powerplay, you have to make use of the two fielders out, try and play your shots and build the innings. Whatever is in my slot, I'll go for it.”

It's the sort of tactical smarts that worked to reinforce why she has been anointed as the anchor of Indian women's cricket. 

But Mandhana is more than what shows on the scoreboard. She is a sign of a wider movement — one where women's cricket is claiming its rightful position in grounds, on televisions and in front rooms. 

She has inspired young girls to play sports and that they can make a profession out of it. 

Representation matters and the impact is visible. 

Indian student and cricket fan Areebah Ahmed also shared her thoughts about Mandhana’s impact.

“For me, Smriti represents possibility. She’s shown us that women can fill stadiums and inspire millions just like the men’s team. When she scores, it feels like she’s scoring for all of us who dream of seeing women’s cricket at the same level as men’s,” she said.

Coming from the same country as Mandhana, Ahmed said, “It fills me with pride. She’s carrying the spirit of our country on the global stage.”

Mandhana’s game is elegant yet defiant, calm yet aggressive. 

In her own words, “throughout the World Cup as well, I wouldn't have one game completely where I wouldn't be aggressive, but depending on the conditions, we change.” 

In a sport where women have fought to be heard, Mandhana has moved beyond the realm of a cricketer. And with the applause swelling, the horizons of women's cricket continue to expand.