Tazmin Brits Breaks Smriti Mandhana’s Record with Fifth ODI Century in 2025

South African opener Tazmin Brits etched her name in the history books after delivering a stunning performance in the 2025 Women’s World Cup match against New Zealand at the Holkar Stadium in Indore. With a blistering century off just 86 balls, Brits not only guided her team toward a strong position but also broke multiple records in the process.

Brits’ innings was a perfect blend of timing, placement, and power. She smashed 15 boundaries and one six during her knock, showcasing her ability to dominate bowlers with both elegance and aggression. This performance marked her fifth ODI century in 2025, setting a new record for the most centuries by a woman cricketer in a calendar year, surpassing Indian opener Smriti Mandhana , who had scored four centuries each in 2024 and 2025.

Breaking Smriti Mandhana’s Record

Before this match, Smriti Mandhana held the record for the most centuries in a single year. However, Brits’ consistency and hunger for runs pushed her beyond Mandhana’s achievements. The South African batter’s ability to adapt to different conditions and her composure under pressure have made her one of the most reliable players in world cricket.

By crossing this milestone, Brits not only demonstrated personal excellence but also elevated the standard of women’s cricket globally. Her performances throughout the year have played a pivotal role in South Africa ’s rise as a dominant force in the women’s ODI format.

Fastest to Seven ODI Centuries

In addition to setting the record for most centuries in a year, Tazmin Brits also became the fastest player to reach seven ODI centuries, accomplishing this feat in just 41 innings. This broke the previous record held by former Australian captain Meg Lanning, who had achieved seven centuries in 45 innings. Following them on the list are England’s Tammy Beaumont and New Zealand’s Suzie Bates, who reached the same mark in 62 and 81 innings respectively.

This milestone underscores Brits’ incredible consistency and adaptability. Whether chasing or setting a target, she has shown remarkable maturity and aggression at the top of the order, making her one of the most feared batters in the women’s circuit.

A Memorable Celebration and Dismissal

After reaching her century, Brits celebrated with her trademark bow-and-arrow gesture, symbolising focus and strength. However, soon after the celebration, she was bowled by Lea Tahuhu for 101 runs off 89 balls. Despite her dismissal, her contribution ensured that South Africa reached a strong position at 185/2 while chasing 232 runs.

Her innings provided a solid foundation for South Africa’s batting unit, ensuring that the team remained on track for a comfortable chase in the high-stakes World Cup encounter.

Sophie Devine’s Milestone and New Zealand’s Effort

Earlier in the match, New Zealand captain Sophie Devine had marked her 300th international appearance with a commanding innings. She scored 85 runs off 98 balls, hitting nine boundaries and registering her 17th ODI half-century. Devine’s experience and skill were evident as she anchored the New Zealand innings, guiding them to a competitive total of 231 runs.

However, despite her efforts, New Zealand failed to capitalise on their early advantage due to South Africa’s strong bowling performance in the later overs.

Mlaba’s Match-Turning Spell

The turning point came through South African left-arm spinner Nonkululeko Mlaba, who delivered a game-changing spell in the second half of the innings. Mlaba’s control, variations, and accuracy helped dismantle New Zealand’s lower order. She took 4 wickets for 40 runs, initiating a collapse that saw New Zealand lose their last five wickets for just 37 runs.

Her disciplined bowling ensured that South Africa had a manageable total to chase and highlighted the growing depth in the team’s bowling attack.

A Rivalry in the Making

With the World Cup progressing into its final stages, cricket fans are eagerly watching the emerging rivalry between Tazmin Brits and Smriti Mandhana. Both players have been in exceptional form, consistently producing match-winning performances for their respective teams. As the tournament continues, it remains to be seen whether Mandhana can reclaim her record or if Brits will extend her lead even further.

Regardless of who finishes on top, this rivalry signifies the exciting growth of women’s cricket and the increasing level of competition among top players.