The Indian women's cricket team etched their names in history during the one-off Test against England. Day 1 at the DY Patil Stadium witnessed a remarkable feat as India became only the third team in the last 88 years to amass a staggering 400+ runs in a single day of women's Tests. Led by the dynamic Harmanpreet Kaur, the Indian side showcased a batting prowess that left cricket enthusiasts in awe.
The team's total of 410/7 not only propelled them into the record books but also marked a significant milestone in the history of women's Test cricket.
Setting a New Milestone
The Indian team posted a total of 410-7 on Day 1, opting to bat first. This achievement not only marked their ascendancy in the ongoing match but also catapulted them into the elite club of teams scoring 400+ runs in a Women's Test in a single day. The previous record of 400/9 against South Africa in 2014 was comfortably surpassed, highlighting the team's progress and dominance in the longer format of the game.
Opting to bat, the Indian batters delivered a masterclass on a seemingly lifeless pitch. The top and middle-order orchestrated a symphony of strokeplay, leaving the England bowlers in disarray. Debutants Shubha Satheesh (69), Jemimah Rodrigues (68), Yastika Bhatia (66), and the seasoned campaigner Deepti Sharma (60 not out) all contributed with impactful half-centuries, punctuating a day of dominance for the Indian team.
Record-Breaking Contributions:
- Shubha Satheesh: Making a memorable debut, Satheesh's gritty 69 laid a strong foundation for India's formidable total.
- Jemimah Rodrigues: With a stylish 68, Rodrigues showcased her class and skill in the longer format.
- Yastika Bhatia: Bhatia's composed 66 added solidity to the Indian innings, further demoralizing the England bowling attack.
- Deepti Sharma: The seasoned campaigner's unbeaten 60 not out provided the finishing touches to India's imposing total.
Historical Context
India's achievement of posting 400+ runs in a single day places them in the esteemed company of New Zealand and England, who accomplished a similar feat in 1935. The record, held jointly by New Zealand (44-10) and England (431-4) in Christchurch, solidifies India's place in the history books.
While England still holds the record for the highest runs scored in a day in women's Test cricket, posting 431/4 against New Zealand in 1935, India's performance at DY Patil Stadium on Day 1 of the one-off Test narrows the gap and sets the stage for a captivating contest.
As the one-off Test progresses, all eyes will be on the Indian women's team to maintain their momentum and potentially set more records. The remarkable display on Day 1 has set the stage for an enthralling contest between two cricketing powerhouses.