On Saturday, the Indian women’s cricket team achieved a monumental feat by recording the highest team total in women’s Test cricket. On day two of the one-off Test against South Africa, India surpassed Australia’s previous record of 575/9 in Perth this February. The milestone was reached when Richa Ghosh hammered a four off the first ball of the 109th over, bowled by Annerie Dercksen.
The exceptional performances of openers Shafali Verma and Smriti Mandhana laid the foundation of this historic achievement. Shafali Verma scored a breathtaking 205 runs, while Smriti Mandhana added a brilliant 149 runs. Notably, their partnership of 292 runs is now the highest opening stand in women’s cricket.
Jemimah Rodrigues-Harmanpreet Kaur’s fifties further bolstered Indian Innings
The record-breaking innings continued with significant contributions from Jemimah Rodrigues, who scored a solid 55 runs. The unbeaten half-centuries from skipper Harmanpreet Kaur and Richa Ghosh further strengthened India’s total. By the end of day 1, India had already set a new record for the highest-ever single-day total in a Test match, finishing at 525 for four. This surpassed the highest single-day total of 509 for nine, set by the Sri Lankan men’s team against Bangladesh in Colombo in 2002.
As play resumed on day two, India continued to build on their formidable score. The partnership between Harmanpreet and Richa provided stability and runs, taking India past the 575-run mark.
Since women’s Test cricket began in 1934, no team has reached the 575-run mark in an innings. This historic achievement is a record and a significant moment for women’s cricket, showcasing the game’s increasing competitiveness and skill.
The Indian team’s performance is particularly notable given the limited opportunities for women’s Test cricket. This innings is a powerful statement about the potential and excellence of women’s cricket internationally. The team has set a new benchmark in the sport.
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