The Indian Women’s Cricket Team commenced their five-match T20 International series against England with an emphatic statement, securing a colossal 97-run victory in the first T20I at Trent Bridge, Nottingham. The cornerstone of this commanding performance was a sensational century by stand-in captain Smriti Mandhana, whose record-breaking knock not only set up India’s formidable total but also etched her name into the annals of cricketing history. This comprehensive win marks England’s heaviest defeat in the T20I format and signals India’s strong intent in the series.

The match, played on Saturday, June 28, 2025, saw India put into bat first after England won the toss and elected to field. What followed was a batting masterclass, primarily led by Mandhana, that left the English bowlers reeling and the home crowd stunned.

Smriti Mandhana’s Batting Masterclass: A Record-Breaking Century

Smriti Mandhana, leading the side in the absence of the injured Harmanpreet Kaur, delivered a performance for the ages. She blazed her way to a magnificent 112 runs off just 62 balls, an innings embellished with 15 fours and 3 towering sixes. This monumental effort not only marked her maiden T20 International century but also made her the first Indian woman cricketer to score centuries in all three formats of international cricket – Tests, One Day Internationals (ODIs), and T20Is. She surpassed Harmanpreet Kaur’s previous record of 103 to register the highest individual score by an Indian in Women’s T20Is.

Mandhana’s century was a display of exquisite timing, aggressive intent, and brilliant strokeplay. Despite losing opening partner Shafali Verma early, Mandhana anchored the innings with a fluent yet aggressive approach. Her ability to find boundaries at will and clear the ropes under pressure showcased her immense talent and growing stature as one of the world’s premier batters. She brought up her hundred off just 51 balls in the 16th over, a truly remarkable feat in the shortest format of the game. Her partnership with Harleen Deol, who contributed a fiery 43 runs off just 23 balls, provided the much-needed impetus to the Indian innings.

India posted an imposing total of 210 for 5 in their allotted 20 overs, their second-highest total in Women’s T20Is and their highest-ever T20I score against England. This huge score put England under immense pressure right from the start of their chase.

England’s Chase Crumbles Under Indian Bowling Attack

Chasing a daunting target of 211, England’s batting line-up crumbled under the relentless pressure exerted by the Indian bowlers. Despite a valiant effort from England captain Nat Sciver-Brunt, who top-scored with a fighting 66 off 42 balls, no other English batter could provide substantial support.

The Indian bowlers executed their plans to perfection, particularly focusing on bowling slower and forcing the English batters to hit against the wind, a strategy praised by Mandhana after the match. Debutant left-arm spinner Shree Charani had a dream start to her international career, emerging as the most successful bowler for India with an impressive haul of 4 wickets for just 12 runs in her 3.5 overs. Radha Yadav also chipped in with two crucial wickets, conceding only 15 runs.

England was eventually bowled out for a mere 113 runs in just 14.5 overs, falling short by a massive 97 runs. This dominant bowling performance ensured that India completed one of their most significant victories over the former world champions in Women’s T20Is.

Key Records and Milestones Achieved

The first T20I was a night of numerous records and milestones, primarily driven by Smriti Mandhana’s exceptional performance:

• First Indian Woman with Centuries in All Formats: Mandhana became the first Indian woman to score a century in Tests, ODIs, and T20Is, joining an elite global club of cricketers.
• Highest Individual Score by an Indian in Women’s T20Is: Her 112 surpassed Harmanpreet Kaur’s 103 (vs New Zealand in 2018), setting a new benchmark.
• Maiden T20I Century: This was her first century in the T20 International format, a significant personal milestone.
• India’s Highest T20I Score vs England: India’s total of 210/5 was their best against England in T20Is.
• England’s Heaviest T20I Defeat: The 97-run margin of victory was England’s largest ever defeat in Women’s T20Is by runs.
• Debutant Brilliance: Shree Charani’s 4/12 on debut was a phenomenal effort, making an immediate impact on the international stage.

Smriti Mandhana was deservingly awarded the Player of the Match for her sublime and match-winning innings. In her post-match comments, she expressed relief and joy at achieving her maiden T20I century, noting that this format was not traditionally her strongest. She credited her success to adapting to the windy conditions and focusing on timing rather than aggressive hitting. Mandhana also lauded Harleen Deol’s attacking approach, which eased pressure on her, and praised the bowlers for their excellent execution of plans, particularly bowling slower deliveries against the wind. She also highlighted the team’s brilliant fielding efforts as a collective factor in the win.

Implications for the Series and Indian Women’s Cricket

This resounding victory gives India a crucial 1-0 lead in the five-match T20I series. The dominant nature of the win will undoubtedly instill immense confidence within the Indian camp and serve as a wake-up call for the English side.

For Indian Women’s Cricket, this performance highlights the growing strength and depth within the squad. The ability of players like Smriti Mandhana to deliver match-winning performances, coupled with the emergence of new talents like Shree Charani, bodes well for the future of the team. The focus on strong batting performances and disciplined bowling, adapting to conditions, will be key as the series progresses.

The second match of the England vs India Women’s T20 series is scheduled to be played at Bristol on Tuesday, July 1, 2025. Fans will be eagerly anticipating another thrilling contest, with India aiming to continue their winning momentum and England looking to bounce back from their heavy defeat.

This emphatic win not only demonstrates India’s prowess in the shortest format but also underscores the increasing competitiveness and excitement in women’s international cricket.

KKNLive.com will continue to bring you comprehensive coverage, analysis, and all the latest updates from the India Women’s Tour of England 2025.