Mumbai: A commanding batting performance propelled India to a 4-0 lead in the five-match T20I series against Sri Lanka, as they recorded their highest-ever total in Women’s T20Is. The Indian team reached 221/2, surpassing their previous best of 217/4 set against the West Indies in 2024.

The record-breaking innings was anchored by a remarkable opening partnership between Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma, who collectively added 162 runs for the first wicket. This stand marked the highest-ever partnership for India in any wicket in the T20I format.

Mandhana, who scored 80 runs, achieved a significant career milestone by becoming only the second Indian woman to amass 10,000 international runs across formats, doing so in her 280th appearance. She surpassed notable players such as Mithali Raj, Suzie Bates, and Charlotte Edwards to become the fastest in women’s cricket history to reach this milestone.

Richa Ghosh and Harmanpreet Kaur contributed to the team’s imposing total with unbeaten innings of 40 and 16 runs, respectively.

In the chase, Sri Lanka put up a spirited fight, finishing with 191 runs, falling short by 30 runs. Despite the loss, the visitors showed resilience against a formidable Indian side.

Reflecting on the win, Mandhana expressed her satisfaction in contributing to the team’s success, acknowledging the mental shift required after playing One Day Internationals earlier in the year. She also highlighted the positive team environment, noting the mutual celebration of individual successes.

Both teams are in preparation for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026, set to commence on June 12 in England and Wales. India will kick off their campaign against Pakistan, while Sri Lanka will face defending champions New Zealand.

The final T20I of the series will be played in Thiruvananthapuram on December 30, where India will aim to complete a series sweep.