Indian women’s cricket has witnessed a remarkable transformation over the past few decades, evolving from the fringes of the sporting landscape to the heart of the nation’s cricketing consciousness. At the core of this journey stand a select group of trailblazing cricketers whose longevity, resilience, and brilliance have set new benchmarks, not just in numbers but in inspiration.
In the world of cricket, caps aren’t just a tally, they’re a testament to unwavering commitment, adaptability, and the trust placed in a player by their team and country. These most capped Indian women’s ODI players have not only redefined records but have also become role models for generations, proving that experience is as vital as talent in the pursuit of greatness.
List of the Most Capped Indians in ODIs.
Smriti Mandhana:
Career: 2013–2025*; Matches: 100; Runs: 4,306; Batting Average: 45.80; 50s/100s: 30/10
The elegant southpaw, Smriti Mandhana, has become synonymous with class and consistency at the top of the order. Since her debut as a teenager, Mandhana’s fearless stroke play and calm demeanour have made her a mainstay in the Indian batting line-up. As the current vice-captain, she holds the record for the most centuries by an Indian woman in ODIs (10), a testament to her ability to convert starts into big scores.
Her signature cover drives have lit up stadiums worldwide, and her rapid rise has inspired countless young girls to take up the sport. Still active, Mandhana’s journey is far from over; her leadership and hunger for runs promise many more memorable moments.
Deepti Sharma
Career: 2014–2025*; Matches: 103; Runs: 2,187; Batting Average: 34.17; 50s/100s: 12/1; Wickets: 133; Bowling Average: 26.94; Economy: 4.17
A genuine all-rounder, Deepti Sharma has been the glue in India’s lower middle order and a lynchpin in the bowling attack. Her ability to chip in with vital innings with the bat and break partnerships with her crafty off-spin has made her indispensable. Deepti’s three five-wicket hauls and over 2,000 ODI runs highlight her match-winning prowess.
Her calm under pressure was never more evident than during India’s run to the 2017 World Cup final, where she played crucial roles with both bat and ball. Still an active force, Deepti’s versatility and composure continue to inspire the next generation of Indian cricketers.
Amita Sharma:
Career: 2002–2014; Matches: 111; Wickets: 87; Bowling Average: 32.52; Economy: 3.73; Runs: 926; Batting Average: 16.83; 50s: 1
A tireless workhorse, Amita Sharma was the backbone of India’s pace attack for over a decade. Known for her accuracy and ability to swing the ball, she often delivered crucial breakthroughs. Amita’s gritty lower-order batting provided much-needed depth, and her lone ODI fifty was a testament to her fighting spirit. Her career, spanning the formative years of Indian women’s cricket, saw her play a pivotal role in several memorable wins. Though she retired in 2014, Amita’s legacy lives on in the new crop of Indian seamers she helped inspire.
Anjum Chopra:
Career: 1995–2012; Matches: 127; Runs: 2,856; Batting Average: 31.38; 50s/100s: 18/1; Wickets: 9; Bowling Average: 46; Economy: 4.13
A pioneer and former captain, Anjum Chopra was the first Indian woman to play 100 ODIs, a milestone that speaks volumes about her endurance and skill. Her left-handed elegance and ability to anchor the innings made her a dependable presence at the crease. Chopra led India through a transformative era, guiding the team to its first World Cup final in 2005. Her leadership, resilience, and advocacy for women’s cricket have made her a revered figure, both on and off the field.
Post-retirement, Anjum continues to shape the game as a commentator and mentor, inspiring young cricketers to dream big.
Harmanpreet Kaur:
Career: 2009–2025; Matches: 144; Runs: 3,874; Batting Average: 37.61; 50s/100s: 19/6; Wickets: 31; Bowling Average: 48.64; Economy: 5.28
The current captain and one of the most dynamic players in world cricket, Harmanpreet Kaur, is renowned for her explosive batting and game-changing performances. Her unforgettable 171* against Australia in the 2017 World Cup semi-final remains etched in cricketing folklore, symbolising India’s fearless new era. With over 3,800 runs and 31 wickets, Harmanpreet’s all-round abilities and aggressive leadership have redefined Indian women’s cricket. As she continues to lead from the front, her passion and charisma galvanise the team and inspire millions across the country.
Jhulan Goswami:
Career: 2002–2022; Matches: 204; Wickets: 255; Bowling Average: 22.04; Economy: 3.37; Runs: 1,228; Batting Average: 14.61; 50s: 1
The “Sultan of Swing,” Jhulan Goswami, is the highest wicket-taker in Indian women’s ODI history, a record that cements her legacy as one of the greatest fast bowlers ever. Her relentless pace, pinpoint accuracy, and never-say-die attitude made her a nightmare for batters worldwide. Jhulan’s seven four-wicket hauls and two five-fors underline her match-winning pedigree. Beyond the numbers, her mentorship and sportsmanship have paved the way for a new generation of Indian pacers.
Retiring in 2022, Jhulan remains a beloved ambassador of the game. After her retirement, she has taken up mentor roles across the franchise leagues. She is also involved with the two-time title-winning Mumbai Indians franchise led by skipper Harmanpreet Kaur, as a bowling coach.
Mithali Raj
Career: 1999–2022; Matches; 232; Runs: 7,805; Batting Average: 50.68; 50s/100s: 64/7; Wickets: 8; Bowling Average: 11.37; Economy 3.19
The undisputed queen of Indian women’s cricket, Mithali Raj’s career is a masterclass in consistency, elegance, and leadership. As India’s most capped player and leading run-scorer, Mithali’s numbers are staggering, over 7,800 runs at an average above 50, with 64 fifties and 7 centuries. Her calm authority and tactical acumen transformed the Indian team, leading them to two World Cup finals and inspiring a cricketing revolution.
Mithali’s journey from a prodigious teenager to a global icon is filled with milestones, including being the first Indian woman to score a double century in Tests. Since retiring in 2022, she has continued to advocate for women’s cricket, ensuring her legacy endures both on and off the field. After her retirement, she has entered into the field of broadcasting and is also seen in the form of a commentator at times.
The journey of Indian women’s ODI cricket is intricately woven with the stories of these seven remarkable players. Their collective experience, spanning over three decades, has not only brought glory to the nation but also shattered stereotypes and opened doors for future generations. From Mithali Raj’s serene dominance to Jhulan Goswami’s fiery spells, from Harmanpreet’s audacious leadership to Smriti and Deepti’s ongoing brilliance, each has left an indelible mark on the game.
Their blend of skill, resilience, and leadership has forged a path for aspiring cricketers, proving that with passion and perseverance, Indian women can conquer the world stage. As the sport continues to evolve, these legends remain the gold standard beacons of inspiration, lighting the way for the next wave of stars.
