Mandhana Scores Fastest T20I Fifty by Indian, Betters Own Record

Indian opener Smriti Mandhana smashes a half-century off 24 balls in the first T20I against New Zealand.

Smriti Mandhana smashed the fastest T20I half-century by an Indian batswoman, bettering her own record during their first Twenty20 against New Zealand on Wednesday, 6 February.

Indian opener Mandhana reached the 50-run mark in 24 balls, one delivery less than her previous record of 25 balls against English women in Mumbai last year. She was eventually dismissed for 58 (off 34 balls).

A sweep, down on one knee, to the medium pacer, to bring up fifty. Is there a more imperious way of showing off your form?#SmritiMandhana

— Snehal Pradhan (@SnehalPradhan) February 6, 2019

What a batter @mandhana_smriti has become. To timing and touch, she has added power. And so lovely to watch.

— Sambit Bal (@sambitbal) February 6, 2019

Smriti Mandhana is in a different league...what class. Exceptional. #NZvInd #WT20i @StarSportsIndia

— Aakash Chopra (@cricketaakash) February 6, 2019

The 22-year-old’s record-breaking half-century however went in vain as India slumped to a 23-run loss against the White Ferns.

After registering a 2-1 win in the three-match ODI rubber, India are playing a three-match T20I series against New Zealand.