Harmanpreet Kaur has become the first cricketer to play 200 T20 internationals, reaching the mark in India’s match against South Africa. She now sits alone at the top of the list, ahead of New Zealand’s Suzie Bates on 184 appearances.
From Taunton to 200
Harmanpreet debuted in international cricket in an ODI against Pakistan in March 2009, and played her first T20I later that year against England at Taunton. She has since become one of India’s most influential players in every format.
At the toss she spoke warmly about the journey, saying she had never imagined getting this far and thanking God, her family, friends, the BCCI and her teammates for their support. She admitted to feeling emotional, and said she was more nervous than debutant Prema Rawat, whom she presented with a first cap and who looked very calm.
The most-capped players
Behind Bates, England’s Danni Wyatt-Hodge has 183 T20Is, Australia’s Ellyse Perry 177 and India’s Smriti Mandhana 169. Among men, Ireland captain Paul Stirling leads with 163, followed by India’s Rohit Sharma on 159. George Dockrell, Jos Buttler and Mohammad Nabi are also among the most experienced.
A defeat on the day
The occasion did not bring a win. South Africa beat India by six wickets, with all-rounder Marizanne Kapp contributing with bat and ball to earn Player of the Match.
