India Women Vs South Africa Women Test Only : India Won by 10 Wickets

India secured a commanding 10-wicket victory over South Africa in the Only Women’s Test at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, led by outstanding performances from Shafali Verma and Sneh Rana.

Shafali Verma and Sneh Rana Shine in Clinical Victory

India, led by Harmanpreet Kaur, secured a comprehensive 10-wicket victory over Laura Wolvaardt's South Africa in the Only Women’s Test at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. The win was highlighted by Shafali Verma's double century and Sneh Rana's remarkable 10-wicket haul.

South Africa's Resilient Fightback

After being put under pressure by India's dominant first innings total of 603 for six declared, South Africa faced a daunting task. Despite a significant first-innings deficit of 337 runs, the Proteas showed remarkable resilience in their second innings.

Laura Wolvaardt and Sune Luus, South Africa's experienced pair, put together a 190-run partnership for the second wicket. Wolvaardt scored 122 runs off 314 balls with 16 fours, becoming only the third batter in women's cricket to score hundreds in all three formats, joining England’s Heather Knight and Tammy Beaumont. Luus contributed a valuable 109 runs off 203 balls with 18 fours.

India's Bowling Prowess

India's bowlers, led by Sneh Rana, played a crucial role in dismantling South Africa's batting lineup. Rana took 10 wickets in the match, making her only the second Indian bowler after Jhulan Goswami to achieve this feat in Women’s Test cricket. Deepti Sharma and Rajeshwari Gayakwad also chipped in with two wickets apiece.

South Africa managed to wipe off the deficit, setting India a modest target of 37 runs after scoring 373 in their second innings. Nadine de Klerk fought hard, scoring 61 runs off 185 balls with 8 fours and 1 six, ensuring that South Africa avoided an innings defeat.

Shafali Verma Leads India's Chase

In the run chase, India opted to send out Shubha Satheesh along with Shafali Verma, instead of regular opener Smriti Mandhana. The duo made light work of the target, with Shafali Verma staying not out on 24 runs off 30 balls, and Satheesh contributing 13 runs off 26 balls. India achieved the target in just 9.2 overs, sealing a 10-wicket victory.

Historical Context and Future Prospects

This victory marks India’s third consecutive win against South Africa in Test cricket. India continues to dominate the format at home, following significant wins over Australia and England last year.

Looking Ahead: T20I Series

After their success in the ODI series and the Only Test, India will look to carry their momentum into the 3-match T20I series against South Africa, starting on July 5 at the Chepauk Stadium in Chennai. The Women in Blue will aim to continue their impressive form and secure another series win.

Match Highlights

• India's First Innings: 603 for six declared.
• South Africa's First Innings: 266 all out.
• South Africa's Second Innings: 373 all out.
• India's Second Innings: 37 for no loss.
• Notable Performances:
  • Shafali Verma: 205 in the first innings, 24 not out in the second innings.
  • Sneh Rana: 10 wickets in the match.
  • Laura Wolvaardt: 122 runs in the second innings.
  • Sune Luus: 109 runs in the second innings.
  • Nadine de Klerk: 61 runs in the second innings.