India’s strong performances from Jemimah Rodrigues and Smriti Mandhana weren’t enough as they failed to chase down 190 against South Africa in Chennai on Friday. Tazmin Brits led the visitors with an impressive 81 off 56 balls, securing a 12 run victory for South Africa in the 1st T20I.

India’s winning streak in T20Is ended as they lost the first game of a three match series to South Africa by 12 runs in a high scoring contest. Coming off a 5-0 series win against Bangladesh, India was confident but their bowling fell short in this series opener.

Despite winning the ODI series 3-0 and the lone Test match against South Africa, India struggled in the T20I. Contributions from Harmanpreet Kaur, Smriti Mandhana, and Jemimah Rodrigues couldn’t close the gap to the 190 run target. The loss also marked India’s first defeat in the multi format series against the visiting South African team.

South Africa takes the lead in threematch series

Captain Harmanpreet Kaur acknowledged the team’s shortcomings “We dropped too many chances in the field and played too many dot balls in the middle overs. They bowled well, but we needed to keep the momentum going.” Her statement highlighted the critical moments where India faltered despite a strong start.

India opted to bowl first, hoping to capitalize on early conditions. However, Renuka Singh and the other new ball bowlers couldn’t secure early wickets. Laura Wolvaardt and Tazmin Brits formed a strong opening partnership, putting pressure on the Indian bowlers right from the start.

South Africa’s strong start and key partnerships

Left-arm spinner Radha Yadav managed to strike in the 8th over, removing Wolvaardt. However, Brits and Marizanne Kapp added 96 runs for the second wicket, with Kapp scoring 57 off 33 balls while Brits dominated with her 81. This partnership was crucial in setting up a formidable total for South Africa.

Brits’ late innings surge helped South Africa post a challenging total. Only Pooja Vastrakar and Radha Yadav took two wickets each for India, while the other bowlers struggled. Spinners Deepti Sharma and Asha Sobhana leaked 84 runs between them in 8 overs without taking a wicket.

Mandhana and Rodrigues lead India’s chase

In response, India had a strong start with Shafali Verma and Smriti Mandhana adding 56 runs quickly. However, Shafali fell for 18, and Dayalan Hemalatha couldn’t maintain the scoring rate, managing just 14 off 17 balls. Mandhana’s dismissal for 46 in the 10th over shifted momentum away from India.

Despite Jemimah Rodrigues unbeaten 53 and captain Harmanpreet Kaur’s 35, India couldn’t reach the target. The high-scoring thriller ended with South Africa taking a 1-0 lead in the series, showcasing their resilience and tactical superiority in crucial moments.

India’s women’s cricket team showcased their dominance in a clinical 10-wicket victory over South Africa at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. This match not only highlighted India’s prowess but also solidified their unbeaten record against South Africa in Test cricket, making it 3-0.

Day 1: Strong start for India

India’s innings began on a strong note with solid partnerships that set the foundation for a formidable total. Smriti Mandhana was a standout performer, scoring a brilliant 149 runs. Her partnership with Shafali Verma was particularly noteworthy, as they built a solid opening stand that put India in a commanding position early on.

Day 2: Consolidation and Dominance

On the second day, India continued to build on their strong start, with contributions from the middle order solidifying their position. Harmanpreet Kaur and Deepti Sharma played crucial roles, ensuring that India posted a formidable total. By the end of the day, India had taken a significant lead, putting immense pressure on South Africa.

South Africa’s struggle in the first innings

South Africa’s first innings was marked by early wickets and consistent pressure from India’s bowlers. Rajeshwari Gayakwad and Sneh Rana were particularly effective, picking up crucial wickets and ensuring that South Africa never got into a rhythm. Despite a few resistance efforts, South Africa was bundled out for a modest total.

With a lead of 337 runs, India had a psychological edge over South Africa. This commanding lead not only put India in a strong position but also allowed their bowlers to attack without fear of conceding too many runs. Key performances from the Indian batters ensured that the team maintained their dominance.

South Africa’s resilient fightback

Despite the daunting task ahead, South Africa showed resilience in their second innings. The experienced duo of Laura Wolvaardt and Sune Luus put on a 190-run partnership for the second wicket, showcasing their grit and determination. This partnership was the highlight of South Africa’s innings and gave them a glimmer of hope.

Laura Wolvaardt’s heroics

Laura Wolvaardt’s century was a standout performance in the match. Scoring 122 runs off 314 balls, Wolvaardt became only the third batter in women’s cricket to score hundreds in all three formats. Her innings was a masterclass in patience and technique, earning her accolades and comparisons with cricketing greats.

Sune Luus’ contribution

Sune Luus played a crucial role alongside Wolvaardt, scoring a vital 109 runs. Her innings was marked by strategic shot selection and resilience. Luus’ performance was instrumental in helping South Africa avoid the follow-on and put up a fight in their second innings.

Marizanne Kapp and Nadine de Klerk’s efforts

Marizanne Kapp and Nadine de Klerk contributed significantly to South Africa’s total, with scores of 31 and 61 respectively. Their efforts were crucial in ensuring that South Africa wiped off the deficit and set a target for India. Kapp’s aggressive approach and de Klerk’s resilience were key highlights of their innings.

Despite suffering from lower limb cramps, Sinalo Jafta’s determination saw her return to bat and contribute to South Africa’s total. Her effort epitomized the fighting spirit of the South African team, even in the face of adversity.

India’s bowling prowess

India’s bowlers were exceptional throughout the match. Sneh Rana, Deepti Sharma, and Rajeshwari Gayakwad were the standout performers, picking up crucial wickets at key moments. Rana’s 10-wicket haul in the match was particularly noteworthy, making her only the second Indian bowler after Jhulan Goswami to achieve this feat in a Women’s Test.

Sneh Rana became just the second Indian to register a ten-wicket match haul in Women’s Tests. The off-spinner picked eight wickets in the first innings helping bowl out the visitor for 266 before picking up two more in the second innings to achieve the feat.

Jhulan Goswami is the only other bowler to have picked up ten in a match for India Women, doing so against England at Taunton in 2006.

The final run chase

India’s run chase was a straightforward affair. Despite Smriti Mandhana not coming out to bat, Shafali Verma and Shubha Satheesh ensured that India crossed the finish line with ease. Shafali, continuing her fine form from the first innings, remained unbeaten on 24 runs, guiding India to a 10-wicket victory.

Shafali Verma’s impact

Shafali Verma’s consistent performance was a highlight of the match. Her scores of 205 in the first innings and 24 not out in the second were crucial in India’s victory.

With the Test series concluded, India will now focus on the upcoming 3-match T20I series against South Africa, starting on July 5 at Chepauk.

The Test match between India Women and South Africa Women at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai was nothing short of a thriller. This match showcased the determination and resilience of both teams, with standout performances that will be remembered for years to come.

Day 1 Highlights

India dominated the opening day with early breakthroughs, putting South Africa on the back foot. The Indian bowlers were relentless, making the most of the pitch conditions and testing the South African batters with every delivery.

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Day 2 Struggles

South Africa showed resilience on the second day, with key performances from their top-order batters. The partnership between Luus and Wolvaardt started to build, providing the stability that South Africa desperately needed. South Africa showed great fight to reach 236 for 4 on the second day of the one-off Test in Chennai after India declared their first innings at a record 603 for 6.

Day 3 Turning Point

Day 3 was a turning point in the match. India managed to rattle the remaining six wickets in the first hour, giving them a significant advantage. However, South Africa’s Luus and Wolvaardt had other plans, putting up a strong resistance and not offering many chances to the Indian team.

The pitch at Chepauk offered variable bounce and turn, making it challenging for the batters. Both teams had to adapt to the changing conditions, which played a significant role in the dynamics of the match.

Luus’s Century

Luus’s century was a significant milestone in the match. Her determination and grit were on full display as she fought against the Indian bowlers, bringing stability to the South African innings and giving her team a fighting chance.

Skipper Harmanpreet Kaur gets the breakthrough for India. She kept low as Luus tried to pull, went under the bat, and removed the offstump from its groove. Luus scored 109 runs off 203 balls. She becomes the second South African to hit a century against India in India after Mignon du Preez.

Wolvaardt’s Near Century

Wolvaardt’s perseverance was commendable. Batting on 93, she showcased her skill and patience, dealing with the challenging pitch conditions and Indian bowlers. Her performance was a testament to her resilience and focus.

Deepti Sharma’s missed chances, including dropped catches at slip and off her own bowling, were critical moments in the match. These missed opportunities allowed South Africa to build their innings and put pressure on India.

South Africa’s game plan will focus on building partnerships and negating the Indian bowlers. The onus will be on Kapp and Wolvaardt to bat for as long as possible and put runs on the board.

Sneh Rana’s 8-wicket haul

India’s off-spinner Sneh Rana delivered a remarkable performance with figures of 25.3-4-77-8. Her spell dismantled the South African batting lineup and set a new benchmark since Neetu David’s 1995 feat. Rana’s achievement placed her alongside Indian greats in Women’s Test cricket history.

This achievement places her alongside Indian greats like Gargi Banerjee, Diana Edulji, and Shubhangi Kulkarni, who have also left indelible marks in Women’s Test cricket history.

India’s strategy for wickets

India’s game plan for Day 4 will revolve around early breakthroughs. The wicket has some assistance, and the Indian bowlers will need to exploit it fully. Aggressive field placements and disciplined bowling will be crucial. The wicket has some assistance on it. But won’t be easy for the Indians.

The Indian women’s cricket team made history on Saturday by setting the highest ever total in women’s Test cricket. On Day 2 of the one-off Test against South Africa, India declared their innings at a formidable 603/4. This remarkable achievement not only showcased the team’s batting prowess but also set a new benchmark in women’s cricket.

Day 2 highlights

Starting Day 2 at an already impressive 525/4, the Indian team looked to build on their advantage. Skipper Harmanpreet Singh and Richa Ghosh continued from where the first-day batters left off, adding crucial runs to the tally.

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Richa Ghosh’s brisk knock

Richa Ghosh’s innings was a masterclass in aggressive batting. Her quick scoring rate kept the South African bowlers under constant pressure. Ghosh’s approach was clear: dominate the bowlers and maximize the score. Her swift 86 runs came at a time when India needed to solidify their dominance, and she did just that.

Harmanpreet Singh’s patient approach

In contrast to Ghosh’s brisk pace, Harmanpreet Singh played a more measured and patient knock. Her 69 runs were vital in anchoring the innings and ensuring stability at one end. Harmanpreet’s tactical approach provided a perfect balance to Ghosh’s aggression, making it difficult for the South African bowlers to find any rhythm.

India declared their innings at 603/4, a strategic decision that came soon after Richa Ghosh’s dismissal. This declaration not only gave the Indian bowlers ample time to attack but also put immense pressure on South Africa to perform.

South Africa’s response

Facing a daunting total, South Africa’s openers started cautiously. However, the early dismissal of skipper Laura Wolvaardt for just 33 runs was a setback. This put additional pressure on the middle order to build a substantial partnership.

Luus and Bosch partnership

Sune Luus and Anneke Bosch played pivotal roles in stabilizing South Africa’s innings. Their 66-run partnership was marked by resilience and tactical play, helping to steer the team away from early trouble.

Marizanne Kapp’s gritty performance

Marizanne Kapp’s unbeaten 93 runs were the highlight of South Africa’s innings. Her performance was a testament to her skill and determination, providing the backbone for South Africa’s fightback. Kapp’s innings was a blend of calculated shots and solid defense, crucial in keeping South Africa in the game.

Deepti Sharma’s breakthrough

Deepti Sharma’s dismissal of Sune Luus was a significant moment in the match. Trapping Luus in front of the wicket for 65 runs, Sharma’s breakthrough was vital in breaking South Africa’s momentum and giving India a much-needed wicket.

Sneh Rana’s three-fer

Sneh Rana emerged as India’s leading bowler on Day 2, taking three important wickets. Her ability to turn and grip the ball posed significant challenges to the South African batters.

India’s bowling strategy

India’s use of spinners proved to be an effective strategy. By rotating their bowlers and employing various field placements, they managed to create several chances. The spinners, in particular, succeeded in generating turn and bounce, making life difficult for the South African batters.

The Indian women’s team made history as they scored a record total of 603/6 against the South African women’s team in the one-off Test match at the M Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai as well. Day 2 of the Test match saw India continuing their dominance from the last day. India also surpassed Australia’s record for the highest team total on June 29, Saturday as well.

Earlier, Australia had a record of 575/9d against South Africa in February 2024. India surpassed their total to make history by holding the record yet again against the same opponents. However, India created a lot of records as they had the upperhand throughout the innings.

After opting to bat first, Shafali Verma and Smriti Mandhana set the platform for India as they smashed their respective hundreds. Their stunning knocks put the Proteas on the back foot as the duo scored freely all over the park. The duo shared a record partnership of 292 runs, which is the highest ever by an opening pair in women’s Tests as well. Mandhana got out for 149 runs whereas Shafali Verma smashed a scintillating double ton.

SEE ALSO: India-w vs South Africa-w Day 1 highlights: Shafali’s double century drives India to record-breaking opening day

She went on to score 205 and reached the 200-run mark in only 194 balls, the fastest in a Women’s Test. However, she missed out on breaking former India captain Mithali Raj’s record of the highest score for India in Women’s Tests as she was run out due to a mix-up with Jemimah Rodrigues.

Despite her dismissal, Harmanpreet Kaur, Jemimah Rodrigues and Richa Ghosh played well and India put up 525 runs on the board, the highest for any team on a single day’s play as well. Jemimah Rodrigues also scored a fifty and Harmanpreet Kaur along with Richa Ghosh kept the scoreboard ticking on Day 1. Notably, Harmanpreet (69) and Richa (86) missed out on scoring hundreds as India declared the innings at 603.

India’s openers Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma dominated South Africa’s bowlers on the first day of their Test match in Chennai. Mandhana scored a strong 149, while Verma hit an impressive double century with eight sixes, leading India to a massive 525/4 – the highest score ever on the opening day of a Test match at Chepauk.

The day started slowly for the Indian openers, but once Verma hit a boundary, they never looked back. Their partnership reached 292 runs, with both players scoring big centuries. Verma’s aggressive shots, including her record-breaking sixes, left South Africa struggling.

After a brief pause for lunch, Mandhana and Verma continued their attack, frustrating the South African bowlers. They kept hitting boundaries and reached their centuries on consecutive balls. Mandhana, who had already scored two centuries and a 90 in the ODIs, was aiming for a double century but got out at 149.

Verma’s record-breaking double century

Despite this, Verma kept up the pressure hitting back-to-back sixes and then a single to reach her double century. Her powerful batting along with Jemimah Rodrigues quick runs, added to South Africa’s troubles. Verma was eventually run out, and Rodrigues got out after passing fifty.

As the day ended, India kept scoring, with Harmanpreet Kaur and Richa Ghosh taking advantage of the tired bowlers. India finished with 525 runs, setting a new record for the highest opening day score in Women’s Test history.

SEE ALSO: India-W vs South Africa-W: Shafali Verma hits fastest double century in women’s test cricket history