Smriti Mandhana’s blazing century that sealed the Servo Cup win

If you love a good cricket story, Smriti Mandhana’s performance in the Servo Cup final is a must‑read. The Indian opener walked into the match with a reputation for power hitting, but nobody expected a 116‑run explosion that turned a tight chase into a 97‑run drubbing of Sri Lanka. Let’s break down what happened, why it mattered, and how she did it.

Why the Servo Cup mattered for India Women

The Servo Cup was more than just another tri‑nation series. It served as a rehearsal for the 2025 Women’s World Cup, giving players a chance to test strategies under pressure. For India, the trophy also meant a confidence boost and a statement that their batting line‑up could dominate in any condition. Winning the final helped cement their top‑rank status and gave the squad a morale lift before the big tournament.

Smriti’s innings: power, timing, and smart play

Mandhana opened the innings and immediately took control. She mixed aggressive drives over mid‑wicket with crisp cuts through point, keeping the Sri Lankan bowlers guessing. Her half‑century came in just 45 balls, but she didn’t rush. After reaching 50, she paced herself, finding gaps and rotating the strike. The big moment arrived at 90 runs when she lofted a short ball for a six over long‑on, pushing the score past the 100‑run mark.

What set her innings apart was the balance between power and patience. While she smashed six fours and three sixes, she also left plenty of deliveries, letting the bowlers tire. This approach forced the opposition to stick to conservative fields, opening up scoring opportunities for her partners.

Beyond the numbers, Mandhana’s mindset was a big factor. She spoke openly about visualizing her shots during practice and staying relaxed at the crease. That calm felt contagious; teammates like Sneh Rana, who took four wickets, said the energy from Mandhana’s batting lifted the whole side.

By the time she was dismissed for 116, India were already 196 for 2, a score that let the bowlers attack without fear. The final margin—97 runs—reflected how her century set the platform for a comprehensive win.

For fans, the innings was a reminder of why Mandhana is a headline name in women’s cricket. She combines raw talent with a work ethic that keeps improving her technique. Young cricketers watching the match can see a clear example of how to blend aggression with smart shot selection.

Looking ahead, the Indian team will carry this confidence into the upcoming World Cup. Mandhana’s form suggests she’ll be a key player in the top order, and her ability to build big scores against quality bowling attacks will be crucial.

In short, Smriti Mandhana didn’t just score a hundred—she set the tone for a winning campaign, proved her class on a big stage, and gave Indian women’s cricket a story worth celebrating.