India’s pinnacle opening batters, Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma, set a new file for the duration of a one-off Test in shape in opposition to South Africa’s women’s group. On June 28, at the M Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, they carried out the best-ever commencing partnership in women’s Test cricket for India.
The pair shared a remarkable 200-plus run stand on Day 1, each scoring centuries. They broke their preceding report of a 167-run partnership against England in June 2021. Shafali Verma reached her maiden Test century in 113 balls, receiving applause and a hug from Mandhana.
Just one ball later, Mandhana brought up her century in 121 balls. Their strong begin gave India a strong basis after choosing to bat first. South Africa’s bowlers struggled to interrupt their partnership, not able to find any solutions in opposition to the dominant Indian openers. Mandhana’s performance persevered her extraordinary form, marking her fourth century in her closing 5 international fits.
Mandhana and Shafali’s break records, South Africa struggle
The pair went on to break the best-ever report for the very best commencing stand in Women’s Test cricket, surpassing the 241-run file set via Pakistan’s Kiran Baluch and Sajjida Shah two a long time in the past. Mandhana and Shafali’s partnership yielded 292 runs from just 312 balls.
🚨 Milestone Alert 🚨
— BCCI Women (@BCCIWomen) June 28, 2024
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This is now the highest opening partnership ever in women's Tests 🙌
Smriti Mandhana & Shafali Verma 🫡🫡
Follow the match ▶️ https://t.co/4EU1Kp7wJe#TeamIndia | #INDvSA | @IDFCFIRSTBank | @mandhana_smriti | @TheShafaliVerma pic.twitter.com/XmXbU9V3M6
Unfortunately, Mandhana was dismissed for 149 runs from 161 balls, falling short of a double century. Despite her dismissal, Shafali continued to carry out strongly, aiming for her double hundred. After Mandhana’s wicket, Shubha Satheesh joined Shafali on the crease.
This partnership was a substantial moment for India and a chief setback for South Africa, whose bowlers appeared helpless in opposition to the effective batting show. Mandhana’s departure was a far-wished leap forward for South Africa, however, it came after sizable damage had already finished. The warm and humid situations in Chennai possibly played a part in Mandhana lacking out on a double century, as fatigue set in.
Record-breaking Partnership Demonstrate India’s Batting Prowess and Team Unity
Mandhana and Shafali’s record-breaking stand not only showcased their skills but also highlighted the energy of India’s batting lineup. Their ability to place up such a large opening partnership set a strong example for the group and underscored the intensity of talent in Indian women’s cricket. Shafali’s ongoing innings and the brand new partnership with Shubha Satheesh aimed to further consolidate India’s role in the match.
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