India is poised for a commanding victory in the one-off women's Test against England at Lord's, as the hosts are struggling at 130-6 heading into the final day, trailing by 327 runs. The match marks the final international appearances for England stalwarts Tammy Beaumont and Heather Knight, neither of whom could provide a fairytale ending.
India declared their second innings at 341-7, setting England a daunting target of 457 runs for victory. The chase began poorly for the home side, with Beaumont departing for a golden duck and Knight dismissed for 13, contributing to England's slump to 59-5. Captain Nat Sciver-Brunt also fell cheaply, scoring just 11. A partnership of 67 runs between Amy Jones and Mady Villiers offered some resistance, but Villiers was eventually caught sensationally by Richa Ghosh off Satghare's bowling. Jones remained unbeaten on 52 at the close of play.
India's Strong Performance
The formidable Indian lead was built on the back of a stellar innings from Yastika Bhatia, who became the first female Test centurion at Lord's with a score of 113. Bhatia capitalized on England's bowling, particularly from Lauren Filer and Issy Wong, after England's bowling attack had shown improvement earlier in the day. Smriti Mandhana had scored 83 in the first innings and 70 in the second before being dismissed by Lauren Bell. Jemimah Rodrigues was also out for three in the second innings.
Despite Sophie Ecclestone's efforts, finishing with figures of 5-118 in India's second innings and earning a place on the Lord's honours board, the day was largely dominated by Indian performance. Richa Ghosh also contributed a quickfire fifty, further solidifying India's advantage before the declaration.
England was bowled out for 170 in their first innings, with Jones scoring 52 and Gaud taking 5-37 for India. The second innings saw England falter under the pressure of the large target and the occasion of their experienced players' farewells.