Yastika Bhatia scores a historic 113 at Lord’s as India Women set a massive target and leave England reeling at 130/6 in the historic one-off Test match.
Introduction:
Indian wicketkeeper-batter Yastika Bhatia carved her name into cricket history, becoming the first-ever woman to hit a Test century at Lord’s Cricket Ground. Her masterful, maiden international ton guided a brilliant Indian team within touching distance of an iconic victory over England on day three of their historic one-off Test match.
Set a mountainous, historic target of 457 runs to win in the final innings, England’s batting lineup collapsed under relentless pressure from the Indian bowling unit. By the close of play, the host nation was left reeling at 130 for 6, still requiring a massive 327 runs to win with only four wickets remaining. India now looks completely set to secure a famous, clean victory on the final day.
Masterful Bhatia Anchors the Indian Innings
India started their second innings on day three with a healthy 115-run lead, determined to bat England completely out of the game.
While opening batsman Smriti Mandhana set a perfect platform with a gorgeous, fluid 70, it was Yastika Bhatia who stole the absolute spotlight.
Returning to the squad following an extensive knee surgery recovery, the elegant left-hander played with incredible composure and baseline technique. See also: Jacob Bethell’s Stunning 76* Guides England to 4-Wicket Win
Yastika Bhatia reached her milestone century off 145 balls with an elegant, signature drive through extra cover. She celebrated the moment with an emotional punch into the air before bowing down to the turf. Her stellar innings of 113 featured 14 exquisite boundaries, recording the highest-ever score by an Indian woman in the third or fourth innings of a Test match.
Bhatia finally departed after hitting a lofted shot off spinner Sophie Ecclestone, who fought bravely to claim 5 for 118.
As Bhatia walked back to the dressing room, the entire Lord’s crowd rose to their feet to give her a standing ovation. A quick, unbeaten 50 from Richa Ghosh allowed India to declare at an imposing 341 for 7.
Satghare and Gaud Mount the Pressure
Faced with a daunting run chase, England’s top order collapsed quickly against India’s accurate new-ball attack. Pacer Kranti Gaud, who made history on day two by becoming the first woman to pick up a five-wicket haul at Lord’s, kept the pressure immensely tight.
However, it was seamer, Sayali Satghare, who did the damage in the evening session, swinging the ball beautifully to claim figures of 2-19. England fell into deep trouble at 130 for 6, with only wicketkeeper Amy Jones showing resistance through a gritty, unbeaten 52.
