Smriti Mandhana of India won the June ICC Women’s Player of the Month Award, her first in her international career, defeating Maia Bouchier of England and Vishmi Gunaratne of Sri Lanka.
Thought to be among the world’s best openers, the 27-year-old solidified her reputation with a brilliant performance during India’s convincing victory in the ODI series in Bengaluru over South Africa, followed by an outstanding Test match in Chennai against the same opponent.
The left-hander, who was nearly unstoppable when brandishing a blade, scored hundreds of runs in the first two ODIs (113 and 136) and then another ninety in the third.
Mandhana and fellow opener Shafali Verma set up India’s Test victory over the Proteas with their exploits in the red-ball game after their efforts in the white-ball format.
Also read: Not yet comfortable with reverse sweeps, but I hope to be soon: Smriti Mandhana
Mandhana finished with 149 from just 161 deliveries as the hosts amassed 603/6 declared in the first innings. The two put on 292 for the first wicket in India’s innings. In the third session of the fourth day of play, the hosts prevailed against the Proteas by 10 wickets, despite significant resistance from the opposition.
I’m glad to help the team out: Smriti Mandhana
After being given the honour, Mandhana talked about how she wanted to carry on helping the team succeed in the same way.
Being selected as the June ICC Women’s Player of the Month makes me happy.
“I’m delighted to have contributed to our team’s victory in both the Test and ODI series, and I’m extremely pleased with the way the squad has played.
“I hope we can keep up our current pace and that I can help India win more matches.”
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