In a commanding performance, Smriti Mandhana delivered a record-breaking innings as India triumphed over Hong Kong by 137 runs in their Women’s Asia Cup 2026 Group A match on Thursday. The game took place at the Dubai International Stadium, and this victory ensured India’s advancement to the semi-finals of the tournament.
Mandhana’s 124 from 64 deliveries powered India to 193 for five before the bowlers completed a comprehensive victory. Hong Kong, returning to the Asia Cup for the first time since 2012, struggled throughout their chase and were dismissed for 56 in 16.2 overs. The Indian opener’s innings was packed with 14 fours and seven sixes and produced several significant milestones. The 18th international century of her career also took her past former Australia captain Meg Lanning, who had 17 centuries across formats.
Her second T20I century made her the first Indian woman to score two hundreds in the format.
Mandhana Sets New Record as India Dominates Hong Kong
Smriti Mandhana has surpassed Mithali Raj’s record of 10,868 international runs, finishing the innings with a total of 10,880 runs, making her the leading run scorer in the history of women’s international cricket.
“I didn’t know all of this happened,” Mandhana remarked upon learning of her achievement.
In the match against Hong Kong, India secured their second victory of the tournament, winning by 137 runs as Hong Kong was bowled out for just 56 runs in 16.2 overs. With this win, India advances to the knockout stage, with their next group match against Pakistan scheduled for September 5.
In her debut T20 series, Pratika Rawal batted at number three and scored 10 runs off 12 balls before being caught at cover. Captain Harmanpreet Kaur contributed 10 runs from nine balls, while Richa Ghosh added 11 runs from 13 balls, both dismissed while attempting aerial shots. Mandhana praised the disciplined bowling of the opposition, noting, “It’s really hard for me to play slower bowlers, but credit to them. They were really disciplined in the powerplay.”
She expressed her joy in contributing to the team’s success, stating, “Having said that, I just love batting, and I’m happy that I could contribute.”
