Yastika Bhatia scripted history with the first-ever women’s Test century at Lord’s as India moved within touching distance of a memorable victory over England in the one-off Test. Bhatia’s superb 113, along with Smriti Mandhana’s 70 and an unbeaten 50 from Richa Ghosh, powered India to 341/7 declared in their second innings, setting England a daunting target of 457.
England’s bowlers fought hard, with Sophie Ecclestone claiming 5/118 to become the first English woman to register a Test five-wicket haul at Lord’s. However, India’s pace attack quickly seized control of the contest.
Kranti Gaud, who had taken a five-wicket haul in England’s first innings, struck early again by dismissing Tammy Beaumont for a golden duck in her farewell international innings. She also removed retiring captain Heather Knight for 13, leaving England reeling. Sayali Satghare and Sneh Rana chipped in with two wickets each as the hosts slumped to 59/5.
Amy Jones offered resistance with an unbeaten 52 and shared a 67-run partnership with Mady Villiers, helping England avoid defeat on Day 3. At stumps, England were 130/6, still requiring 327 more runs with only four wickets remaining.
India are now firmly in control heading into the final day and are on the verge of securing a historic Test victory at the Home of Cricket. The match has already produced several milestones, with Bhatia’s landmark century and Gaud’s five-for ensuring India’s players etched their names onto the prestigious Lord’s honours board.
