Mandhana's Century Powers India to Record T20 Victory Over England
Smriti Mandhana's brilliant century led India to a record 97-run victory over England in the first T20, marking England's heaviest T20 defeat.

Mandhana's Masterclass
Smriti Mandhana delivered a stunning performance, scoring her maiden T20 international century with 112 runs off 62 balls. Her innings included 15 fours and three sixes, setting the stage for India's commanding total of 210-5 at Trent Bridge.
England's Struggles
England, chasing a daunting target, collapsed to 113 all out in just 14.5 overs. Captain Nat Sciver-Brunt provided some resistance with a quickfire 66, but it was not enough to prevent a heavy defeat. India's left-arm spinner Shree Charani made an impressive debut, taking 4-12.
Key Moments
- Mandhana's Early Dominance: From the first ball, Mandhana was in control, effortlessly hitting boundaries and putting England under pressure.
- Costly Drops: England's fielding let them down, with crucial chances missed, including a dropped catch by Danni Wyatt-Hodge that gave Harleen Deol a life on 26.
- Spin Woes: England's batsmen struggled against spin, with eight of the ten wickets falling to Indian spinners.
Series Context
This match marks the start of a five-match series, giving England a chance to regroup. However, the result highlights the challenges they face under new coach Charlotte Edwards, especially with a 50-over World Cup on the horizon.
What's Next
The teams will meet again in the second T20 at Bristol, where England will look to bounce back and address their weaknesses against spin.
Statistical Highlights
- India's Total: 210-5 (Second-highest T20I total for India)
- England's Collapse: 113 all out (Heaviest T20I defeat by runs)
- Mandhana's Strike Rate: 180
Quotes
- Nat Sciver-Brunt: "India are such a good side and when you give a few chances to one of the best batters in the world, it's very difficult to stop."
- Smriti Mandhana: "Me and one of my team-mates talked before the tour and said it was time I got a century. I'm happy it came in the first match."