India’s cricket stars, Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma, have been nominated for the ICC Women 2024 of the Month award for July 2024. They are joined by Sri Lanka’s captain, Chamari Athapaththu, in this prestigious list.
Smriti Mandhana’s Stellar Performance
Smriti Mandhana, the left-handed opener and India’s vice-captain, had an outstanding month. She aims to win the ICC Women 2024 of the Month award for the second consecutive time, having already won it in June 2024.
Consistent Batting
In July, Smriti continued her excellent form. She scored 273 runs in T20Is at an average of 68.25 and a strike rate of 139.28. Her month started with a career-best 149 in the one-off Test against South Africa in Chennai. Together with Shafali Verma, she put up a record-breaking 292-run partnership for the first wicket. This partnership was the highest-ever for the first wicket in Women’s Tests and set the foundation for India’s 10-wicket victory.
Key Contributions in T20Is
Following her Test performance, Smriti scored 100 runs in two innings during the T20I series against South Africa. Her unbeaten 54 in the final T20I helped India win the match by 10 wickets and level the series.
Leading Run-Scorer in Asia Cup
In the Women’s Asia Cup, Smriti was India’s top-scorer with 173 runs. Her 60 off 47 balls in the final, featuring 10 fours, was crucial for India. Her performances were vital in guiding India to success throughout the tournament.
Shafali Verma’s Impressive Month
Shafali Verma also had a remarkable July, earning her a nomination for the ICC award.
Record-Breaking Test Innings
In the one-off Test against South Africa, Shafali scored 229 runs. Her standout performance was a double century, making her the second Indian woman to achieve this feat after Mithali Raj. Shafali’s 205 in the first innings came off just 194 balls, making it the fastest double century in Women’s Tests. She also scored 24 not out in the second innings, contributing to India’s record total of 603/6, the highest in Women’s Tests, leading to a 10-wicket win.
Strong T20I and Asia Cup Performances
In the T20I series against South Africa, Shafali scored 45 runs. She then became the second-highest run-getter in the Women’s Asia Cup with 200 runs at a strike rate of 140.84. Her notable innings included a 40 off 29 balls against Pakistan and a career-best 81 off 48 balls against Nepal, featuring 12 fours and a six.
Chamari Athapaththu’s Leadership and Batting
Chamari Athapaththu, the captain of Sri Lanka, also had a fantastic month, leading her team to victory in the Women’s Asia Cup held in Sri Lanka.
Dominant Batting
Chamari scored 304 runs in the tournament, averaging 101.33 with a strike rate of 146.85. Her standout performance was an unbeaten 119 against Malaysia. She also played crucial innings in the knockout stages, including half-centuries in both the semi-final against Pakistan and the final.
Leading Sri Lanka to Victory
Chamari’s leadership was instrumental in Sri Lanka’s success. Her half-century in the final helped Sri Lanka chase down 166 in front of a packed stadium in Dambulla, securing a memorable victory for her team on home soil.
Conclusion
The nominations of Smriti Mandhana, Shafali Verma, and Chamari Athapaththu for the ICC Women 2024 of the Month award highlight their exceptional performances in July 2024. Smriti and Shafali’s record-breaking achievements for India, alongside Chamari’s leadership and batting heroics for Sri Lanka, have captivated cricket fans around the world. As these players continue to shine, they inspire the next generation of female cricketers with their talent and determination. Stay updated with the latest from IPL365.
