On the opening day of the one-off Test match against South Africa Women, India’s openers, Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma, showcased their prowess, putting India in a commanding position.
Shafali and Smriti’s blistering partnership
Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma formed the highest-ever opening partnership in women’s Test cricket for India. Their stand of over 200 runs set the tone for India’s dominant innings.
Shafali Verma, the young sensation, played a starring role with a record-breaking double century. She scored an unbeaten 205 runs, displaying her aggressive stroke play and resilience at the crease.
Smriti Mandhana, the experienced campaigner, also shone brightly, contributing an impressive century (149 runs) to India’s total.
🤯 Fastest double-hundred in women's Tests by Shafali Verma!
🔥 Third 💯 in four matches for Smriti Mandhana.
💥 292 – Record-highest opening stand in women's Tests.India openers gave an incredible start in Chennai against South Africa!#INDvSA | 🔗: https://t.co/WGsjkNw98R pic.twitter.com/814ZYKAOGp
— ICC (@ICC) June 28, 2024
Opting to bat first, India capitalized on a red-soil pitch in Chennai. Their decision paid off as they amassed a formidable total of 525/4 by the end of Day 1. Shubha Satheesh, making her return to the XI, provided stability at No. 3, while Harmanpreet Kaur led the team from the front as captain.
The South African bowling attack lacked venom, failing to pose significant threats to the Indian batters. India took full advantage of this meek display and piled on the runs. Annerie Dercksen, making her Test debut for South Africa, received her cap but couldn’t prevent India’s dominance.
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