Smriti Mandhana ICC Women’s ODI Ranking: Indian Star Returns to No.1 After Six Years

In a historic moment for Indian women’s cricket, star opener Smriti Mandhana has reclaimed the No.1 spot in the ICC Women’s ODI Batting Rankings, ending her six-year wait to return to the pinnacle. The International Cricket Council (ICC) confirmed this achievement on Tuesday, June 17, marking a significant milestone in Smriti Mandhana ICC Women’s ODI Ranking journey.

Mandhana, known for her elegant left-handed strokeplay, has dethroned South Africa’s captain Laura Wolvaardt, who held the top position before dropping 19 rating points. The Indian vice-captain’s consistent performances in recent matches have propelled her back to the summit — a feat she last achieved in 2019.

Smriti Mandhana’s Journey to the Top: A Six-Year Wait Ends

Smriti Mandhana ICC Women’s ODI Ranking comeback wasn’t an overnight success. She has consistently been among the top ten batters for years, narrowly missing the crown. Her recent return to the No.1 spot is a testament to her relentless work ethic and unwavering focus.

Dominant Performances Fuel the Rise

Her dominant performance in the recent tri-series featuring India, South Africa, and Sri Lanka proved to be the turning point. Mandhana was instrumental in India’s campaign, especially in the final against Sri Lanka where she smashed a match-winning century.

• 264 runs in 5 matches with an average above 50

• Second-highest run-scorer in the tri-series behind Annerie Dercksen

• A stunning century in the final sealed India’s win and boosted her rating

This explosive form helped Smriti Mandhana ICC Women’s ODI Ranking leapfrog over her rivals, making her the most feared batter in the current circuit.

Laura Wolvaardt Drops Down the Rankings

As Mandhana soared, Wolvaardt’s form dipped:

• Scores of 43, 10, 33 in the tri-series

• Followed by 27 and 28 against the West Indies

• Resulting in a 19-point drop in ratings and falling to No.3

Despite the dip, Wolvaardt remains a technically gifted player and is expected to bounce back.

Current ICC Women’s ODI Batting Rankings: Top 5

1. Smriti Mandhana (India) – Reclaims No.1

2. Natalie Sciver-Brunt (England) – Steady at No.2

3. Laura Wolvaardt (South Africa) – Falls to No.3

4. Amy Jones (England) – Rising through consistent knocks

5. Ellyse Perry (Australia) – Still going strong

Other Notable Movers

• Tazmin Brits (SA) – Up 5 spots to No.27

• Sune Luus (SA) – Jumps 7 spots to No.42

• Shemaine Campbelle (WI) – Up 7 spots to No.62

• Qiana Joseph (WI) – Moves up 12 places to equal 67th

These shifts show the depth and competitive nature of women’s cricket today.

Bowlers’ Rankings See Consistency at the Top

While Smriti Mandhana ICC Women’s ODI Ranking dominates the batting headlines, bowlers also saw changes:

1. Sophie Ecclestone (England) – Retains No.1

2. Ashleigh Gardner (Australia) – Consistent challenger

3. Megan Schutt (Australia) – Reliable wicket-taker

4. Deepti Sharma (India) – A key spin asset for India

5. Kim Garth (Australia) – Solid performer

Why Smriti Mandhana’s No.1 Ranking is a Game-Changer

1. A Role Model for Young Aspirants

Smriti Mandhana’s journey from a small town in Sangli to No.1 in ICC rankings is inspirational. Her rise proves that grit, talent, and hard work can break barriers.

2. Reinforces India’s Batting Prowess

Alongside power hitters like Shafali Verma, technical anchors like Jemimah Rodrigues, and the experienced Harmanpreet Kaur, Mandhana brings balance and consistency.

3. Boosts the Visibility of Women’s Cricket

Being one of the most marketable athletes in the sport, her achievement enhances the Smriti Mandhana ICC Women’s ODI Ranking brand, drawing in more viewers, sponsors, and media attention to the women’s game.

What Lies Ahead for Smriti Mandhana and Team India?

With the ICC Women’s Championship ongoing and the 2025 Women’s Cricket World Cup around the corner, Smriti Mandhana ICC Women’s ODI Ranking form becomes even more crucial. India will look to build momentum on her back as they gear up for global domination.

Read More: The Most Consecutive Wins in Test Cricket – Which Team Dominated the Longest?

Conclusion

Smriti Mandhana ICC Women’s ODI Ranking comeback to the top is more than a personal victory — it’s a monumental moment for Indian women’s cricket. After six years of perseverance, she stands tall once again as the No.1 batter in ODIs. Her elegant strokeplay, leadership, and passion for the game continue to elevate women’s cricket to new heights.

As fans, we await her next innings with anticipation, hoping for yet another masterclass from the queen of Indian cricket.