Smriti Mandhana Reclaims Top Spot in ICC ODI Batting Rankings Ahead of Women’s World Cup

New Delhi, Sept 2025 : In a major boost for Team India ahead of the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025, vice-captain Smriti Mandhana has reclaimed the No. 1 position in the ICC Women’s ODI batting rankings. The stylish opener displaced England skipper Nat Sciver-Brunt after scoring a fluent half-century in the series opener against Australia on Sunday.

Mandhana’s composed 58 off 63 balls in the first ODI at New Chandigarh earned her seven rating points, propelling her past Sciver-Brunt by a margin of four points. The return to the top comes at a crucial juncture as India prepare for the 13th edition of the Women’s World Cup.

Her opening partner, Pratika Rawal, also gained valuable ground, climbing four places to 42nd after her well-crafted half-century. Meanwhile, Harleen Deol jumped to 43rd following her 54-run knock. The trio’s batting efforts helped India post a competitive 281 in 50 overs, showcasing depth in the top order.

Despite the strong batting display, India’s bowlers could not defend the total against a clinical Australian side. Chasing 282, Australia rode on a brilliant 88 from Phoebe Litchfield and an unbeaten 77 from Beth Mooney to register an eight-wicket win. Their partnership ensured the visitors took a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.

The victory also brought ranking rewards for the Australians. Mooney climbed from eighth to fifth in the rankings, while Litchfield surged 13 places to share the 25th spot with teammate Annabel Sutherland, who herself gained four places after her unbeaten 54.

Though India faltered with the ball, Mandhana’s resurgence at the top of the global rankings serves as a morale booster. It highlights her consistency as one of the world’s premier batters and sets an encouraging tone for the squad as they gear up for the marquee event.

With two ODIs left in the series, India will aim to bounce back strongly, fine-tuning their bowling attack while continuing to build on the positives from the batting unit. Mandhana’s form, coupled with the rise of youngsters like Rawal and Deol, offers hope that India can strike the right balance before stepping onto the World Cup stage.