The Indian women‘s cricket team made history by amassing a record total of 603/6d against South Africa in the one-off Test match at the M Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. Continuing their dominant form from the opening day, the Indian batters displayed exceptional skill and determination on Day 2, etching their names into the record books. This monumental achievement surpassed previous records and showcased the depth and talent within the Indian team.

India breaks Australia’s long-standing record

Notably, on the second day of the ongoing one-off Test against the Proteas Women, India surpassed Australia’s all-time record for the highest team total in women’s Test cricket. Australia had previously set the record with a score of 575/9d against South Africa in February 2024. By going past this total, India not only claimed the record but also highlighted their batting prowess against a competitive South African side. This achievement also marked yet another instance where the rainbow nation found themselves on the receiving end of a record-breaking performance.

Stellar performances by Shafali Verma and Smriti Mandhana

Opting to bat first, India got off to a flying start with openers Shafali Verma and Smriti Mandhana leading the way. Both players notched up impressive centuries, setting a strong foundation for the team. The duo shared a record partnership of 292 runs, the highest-ever by an opening pair in women’s Tests. Mandhana’s brilliant innings of 149 runs put South Africa on the back foot early in the game.

Meanwhile, Shafali continued her phenomenal form, scoring a scintillating double century. Her 205 runs came off just 194 balls, making it the fastest double century in women’s Test cricket. Although she fell short of surpassing Mithali Raj‘s record for the highest individual score (214) by an Indian in women’s Tests due to a run-out, her performance was nothing short of extraordinary.

Also READ: Shemaine Campbelle, Hayley Matthews lead West Indies to series-clinching win over Sri Lanka in 3rd Women’s T20I

Contributions from the middle order

Further, the Indian middle order maintained the momentum established by the openers. Jemimah Rodrigues added a crucial fifty to the tally, while Harmanpreet Kaur and Richa Ghosh ensured the scoreboard kept ticking. Harmanpreet’s 69 and Richa’s 86 runs were pivotal in pushing India’s total past the 600-run mark. Despite both missing out on centuries, their contributions were vital in India’s commanding innings.

India aim for a dominant win

India’s decision to declare at this formidable total underlined their confidence in their bowlers to defend the score and take control of the match. The Indian team’s performance in this one-off Test has not only set new records but has also demonstrated their dominance and potential in the longest format of the game. The Harmanpreet-led side will now be aiming to dominate the South Africa more and look for a victory in the Test match.

Also READ: Fans celebrate as Shafali Verma smashes fastest double-hundred in Women’s Tests during IN-W vs SA-W game