In a spectacular display of cricketing prowess, the Indian women’s cricket team made history during their one-off Test match against South Africa at the iconic MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. Under the captaincy of Harmanpreet Kaur, the team achieved a monumental milestone that has cemented their place in the annals of women’s Test cricket history. For the first time in the 90-year history of the format, a women’s team has managed to break the 600-run barrier in a single innings, a feat no other team has accomplished until now.
The Indian team’s astounding performance saw them amass an incredible 603/6 declared (d) in their first innings. This record-breaking score has not only put them at the pinnacle of women’s Test cricket, but it also erased the previous highest team score held by Australia. The Australian women’s team had earlier established a high mark of 575/9 declared in a Test against South Africa earlier this year.
Here’s a look at the highest team scores in women’s Test cricket history:
1. India: 603/6d vs South Africa in 2024
2. Australia: 575/9d vs South Africa in 2024
3. Australia: 569/6d vs England in 1998
4. Australia: 525 vs India in 1984
5. New Zealand: 517/8 vs England in 1996
The Indian batters dominated the field right from the opening day, carrying their stellar form into the first hour of the second day. On Day 1 alone, they piled up a staggering 525 runs, making it the highest single-day score by a team in women’s Test cricket. The South African bowlers found themselves at the mercy of the relentless Indian batting lineup.
The limelight of this exceptional innings shone brightly on Shafali Verma, who played a once-in-a-lifetime knock. Verma not only shattered records but did so in an exhilarating fashion. She crafted the fastest century in the history of women’s Test cricket, reaching her hundred in just 113 balls, overtaking the previous record held by England’s Janette Brittin, who had taken 137 balls to achieve the milestone. Verma did not stop there; she accelerated her scoring rate, achieving her second hundred in just 81 additional balls. In total, she took a mere 194 balls to secure her double century, breaking the previous fastest double-ton record of 248 deliveries set by Australia’s Annabel Sutherland.
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Shafali Verma’s record-breaking century and double century were instrumental in propelling India to this historic score. Her phenomenal batting performance showcased not just her technical prowess, but also her ability to dominate the bowlers with a mix of powerful shots and strategic play. Her innings was a treat for the spectators and a moment of pride for Indian cricket.
The supporting roles played by her fellow teammates cannot be overlooked. Each player who took to the crease contributed significantly to this record score, displaying a collective effort marked by determination and skill. The synergy within the team was palpable, and their sheer will to make history evident in every stroke they played.
Harmanpreet Kaur, the stalwart leader of the team, expressed immense pride in her squad’s achievements. In her post-innings interview, she highlighted the dedication and hard work put in by each member of the team. She acknowledged the coaching staff and support system that guided the team to this historic moment and underscored the importance of maintaining this momentum in future matches.
This historic feat by the Indian women’s cricket team is set to inspire a new generation of cricketers. Young girls across the country and indeed around the world can look up to this moment as a testament to what dedication, teamwork, and passion can achieve. The record of 603/6 declared is not just a number; it signifies the breaking of barriers and sets a new benchmark in women’s cricket.
As the cricketing world watches in awe, the Indian team has undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the sport. With their record-breaking innings against South Africa, they have not only rewritten the history books but also set a new standard for excellence in women’s Test cricket. More records and milestones are likely to follow as this talented team continues to strive for greatness. More to follow…
