The one-off Test match between India Women and South Africa Women was a memorable one, with India dominating throughout. Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma were outstanding in the first innings, combining for a massive partnership of 292 runs. Mandhana scored a brilliant century, while Shafali became the second Indian woman to score a double century in Test cricket. India posted a record-breaking total of 603, the highest ever in Women's Test cricket.
On the bowling front, Sneh Rana was exceptional, dismantling South Africa's batting line-up. Despite Laura Wolvaardt's valiant effort in the second innings to save the game for South Africa, her efforts were in vain. India Women secured a convincing victory, making the match one for the record books.
Let’s have a look at their performances in the one-off Test between India Women and South Africa Women:
Sneh Rana: 8/77 and 2/111
After India Women posted a massive total of 603, it was up to the bowlers to dominate, and they did just that, especially Sneh Rana. South Africa Women initially got off to a decent start, but Sneh Rana soon took control of the game. She dismissed Laura Wolvaardt for just 20 and Anneke Bosch for 39, putting India Women in a strong position.
Sneh continued her impressive performance by dismissing South Africa’s best batter in the first innings, Marizanne Kapp, for 74. She then sent Delmi Tucker back to the pavilion for a duck. Nadine de Klerk also fell victim to her spinning deliveries, getting out for 39. Sneh cleaned up the tail, finishing with an impressive 8 wickets in the innings. This made her the second Indian bowler after Neetu David to take 8 wickets in a Test innings.
In the second innings, Sneh continued her excellent form, taking 2 more wickets and ending with a total of 10 wickets in the match. This achievement made her only the second Indian woman after Jhulan Goswami to take 10 wickets in a Test match. Sneh Rana's outstanding performance was crucial in securing India Women’s victory in the Test match, making her one of the standout players of the game.
Laura Wolvaardt: 122 (314)
The skipper of South Africa Women, Laura Wolvaardt, played a determined knock in the second innings against India Women. She made a special effort to try and draw the game, but it was in vain. After being bowled out for 266 in the first innings, Wolvaardt played brilliantly in the second. She stayed calm and composed, scoring her maiden Test century., eventually finishing with 122.
Wolvaardt, along with Sune Luus, gave South Africa a fighting chance to defend their total. Wolvaardt faced a massive 314 deliveries before being dismissed by Rajeshwari Gayakwad. South Africa Women were eventually bowled out for 373, setting India Women a target of just 37 runs. India chased this down easily without losing a wicket, securing a victory by 10 wickets. Wolvaardt’s gritty innings was a standout effort, even though it couldn't save the match for her team.
Sneh Rana and Laura Wolvaardt delivered a truly magnificent performance, captivating audiences with their skill and finesse on the big stage. Their stellar play was a treat to behold, and fans eagerly anticipate more standout performances from them in the matches to come. Here's hoping they continue to shine brightly, bringing joy to all who watch them play.