Smriti Mandhana scripted history by becoming the first player across men's and women's T20Is to hit 600 fours, as India Women faced Netherlands in the Women's T20 World Cup 2026 being co-hosted by England and Wales. The India vice-captain struck 74 off 47 balls and, alongside Shafali Verma (55), added 115 runs for the opening wicket.
Smriti Mandhana's Historic Milestone
Mandhana's 600 fours in T20I cricket is a testament to her consistency and stroke-making ability since her debut. The milestone places her in an elite category of batters who have redefined women's cricket globally. Her 74 off 47 balls against the Netherlands featured 12 fours and 2 sixes, showcasing her ability to dominate bowling attacks.
| Player | Format | Fours | Innings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Smriti Mandhana | Women's T20I | 600+ | ~150 |
| Most by any men's player | Men's T20I | ~500-550 | N/A |
| Shafali Verma | Women's T20I | ~400 | ~120 |
Note: Exact comparison data varies by source. Mandhana is confirmed as first across both formats to reach 600 fours.
Women's T20 World Cup 2026: India's Campaign
India's campaign in the Women's T20 World Cup, which began on June 12 in England and Wales, has started strongly. The team, led by Harmanpreet Kaur, is among the favorites for the title. The tournament features 12 teams competing across venues in England and Wales, with the final scheduled for July 5.
India's batting depth — with Mandhana, Shafali Verma, Harmanpreet Kaur, and Jemimah Rodrigues — is considered one of the strongest in the tournament. The bowling attack, led by spinners Deepti Sharma and Radha Yadav, has also been effective in English conditions.
Growing Popularity of Women's Cricket in India
The Women's T20 World Cup has drawn massive viewership in India, with millions tuning in to watch the matches. The success of the Women's Premier League (WPL) has significantly boosted the profile of women's cricket in India, with more young girls taking up the sport. While the FIFA World Cup dominates global headlines, India's women cricketers are carving their own legacy.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has increased investment in women's cricket, with central contracts for women players matching the men's structure and WPL franchise fees reaching new highs. This investment is translating into on-field success, with India consistently ranked among the top three women's cricket nations.
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