Smriti Mandhana Wins ICC Women’s ODI Cricketer of the Year Award

India’s opening batter Smriti Mandhana has been named the ICC Women’s ODI Cricketer of the Year for 2024. The announcement was made on Monday, recognizing her stellar performances throughout the year.

Mandhana, who also serves as India’s vice-captain, achieved a personal milestone by recording her highest-ever ODI run tally in a calendar year. She amassed 747 runs in 13 innings, making her the leading run-scorer in Women’s ODIs for 2024. She outperformed Laura Wolvaardt (697), Tammy Beaumont (554), and Hayley Matthews (469) to claim the top spot.

Continuing Her Dominance in 2025

Mandhana has carried her outstanding form into 2025. Earlier this month, she smashed the fastest ODI century by an Indian, reaching the milestone in just 70 balls against Ireland. This remarkable feat eclipsed Harmanpreet Kaur’s previous record by 17 balls.

Following her impressive series against Ireland, Mandhana climbed to No. 2 in the latest ICC Women’s ODI Batting Rankings. She remains the only Indian in the top 10, with scores of 135, 41, and 73 in the three-match series. She currently holds 738 rating points, trailing Laura Wolvaardt (773), while Chamari Athapaththu (733) is in third place.

Mandhana Reacts to Her Achievement

Expressing her gratitude, Mandhana said:
“Winning the ICC Women’s ODI Cricketer of the Year Award for 2024 is an absolute honor. I still remember how special it was when I won this award for the first time in 2018—it fueled my ambition to perform better for my country. Now, winning it again motivates me even more to strive for excellence.”