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Women’s T20I cricket has become one of the most followed and competitive formats in international cricket.

Women’s T20I cricket has become one of the most followed and competitive formats in international cricket. The fast pace and growing global audience have made T20I a platform where stars are born and records are broken. Over the years, many batsmen have left a lasting impression with their match-changing performances.
As of 2025, the race for the highest career run scorer in women’s T20I includes big names from New Zealand, India, Australia, Sri Lanka, West Indies and other countries. These cricketers have not only dominated individually but have also lifted their teams in important matches. This includes the World Cup, Commonwealth Games and bilateral series.
In this blog, we explore the top 8 highest run scorers in women’s T20I cricket, along with an insight into their achievements.
| Rank | Player | Team | Matches | Innings | Runs | Highest Score | Average | Strike Rate (SR) | 100s | 50s | 4s | 6s |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | SW Bates | New Zealand | 177 | 174 | 4716 | 124* | 29.11 | 108.58 | 1 | 28 | 521 | 34 |
| 2 | S Mandhana | India | 153 | 147 | 3982 | 112 | 29.93 | 123.97 | 1 | 31 | 540 | 76 |
| 3 | H Kaur | India | 182 | 162 | 3654 | 103 | 28.77 | 108.20 | 1 | 14 | 348+ | 77+ |
| 4 | AMCJK Athapaththu | Sri Lanka | 146 | 143 | 3458 | 119* | 25.42 | 110.09 | 3 | 13 | 452 | 90 |
| 5 | SFM Devine | New Zealand | 146 | 142 | 3431 | 105 | 28.12 | 120.38 | 1 | 21 | 320 | 114 |
| 6 | SR Taylor | West Indies | 126 | 123 | 3426 | 90 | 34.95 | 100.55 | – | 22 | 331+ | 41+ |
| 7 | MM Lanning | Australia | 132 | 121 | 3405 | 133* | 36.61 | 116.37 | 2 | 15 | 405 | 47 |
| 8 | BL Mooney | Australia | 112 | 106 | 3381 | 117* | 42.26 | 125.73 | 2 | 27 | 440 | 17 |
Suzie Bates has been one of the most influential players in the history of women’s cricket. Topping the list with 4,716 T20I runs, the New Zealand star has a combination of consistency and adaptability. Her anchoring innings, her batting prowess has shaped New Zealand’s T20 identity.
Smriti Mandhana has redefined the ability to create strokes with her timing and superb bowling. With 3,982 runs, her ability to dominate pace and spin makes her one of the best openers in modern cricket. Her strike rate of 123.97 reflects her aggressive playing style, and she is a match-winner in global tournaments.
Harmanpreet Kaur is known for her fearless batting and finishing ability. With 3,654 runs, she is one of the most reliable middle-order batsmen in women’s cricket. Her century in the 2018 T20 World Cup is still considered one of the best innings in history.
Chamari Athapathu has single-handedly propelled Sri Lanka forward on many occasions. With 3,458 runs and the most T20I centuries among the top 8 (3) players, Athapathu is known for his explosive batting and inspirational leadership.
Sophie Devine has revolutionised power-hitting in women’s cricket. With 3,431 runs at a strike rate of 120.38, she is one of the most aggressive openers in world cricket. When she starts bowling, bowlers have no place to hide.
A technically gifted batsman, Stafanie Taylor has scored 3,426 runs at a remarkable average of 34.95. She prefers to build innings rather than swing, making her one of the most reliable batsmen in T20 international cricket.
Former Australia captain Meg Lanning scored 3,405 runs at an impressive average of 36.61. Known for her calm and tactical skills, Lanning played a key role in several World Cup and Ashes victories.
Beth Mooney rise has not been extraordinary. With 3,381 runs and an average of 42.26, she has emerged as the most consistent batsman in the top eight. Whether opening or finishing, Mooney’s shot selection and temperament are world class.
These eight batters did not just score runs as they transformed the standards of T20 cricket. Their dominance influenced:
Many of them became poster faces of major leagues like the WPL, WBBL, The Hundred, and FairBreak Invitational.
The format has brought about unprecedented viewership due to:
With the rise of women’s franchise leagues, the batting standards in T20Is are expected to soar further in the coming years.
The following batters are the ones who, if they continue in form, may break into the top 10 shortly:
With more fixtures in major tournaments, T20I batting records are set for exciting evolution.
Read More: 8 Players With Most Runs in Women’s Test Cricket
The rise of T20 cricket has ushered in a new golden era for the women’s game. These eight batting icons have not only broken records but have redefined how aggressive and consistent the modern game can be. From the longevity of the batsmen to the brilliance of Mandhana, each player has made a unique contribution to the evolution of women’s cricket. As young talent emerges and the format continues to grow globally, we are set to see greater heights in women’s T20I batting. But the legacy of these eight superstars will continue to inspire generations.
New Zealand legend Suzie Bates holds the record of 4,716 runs.
Smriti Mandhana has a lead of 3,982 runs for India.
The highest average belongs to Beth Mooney of Australia: 42.26.
Chamari Athapathu has scored the most T20I centuries, 3.
Australia and India feature twice in this list.
