Yastika Bhatia Makes History with Lord’s Century as India Dominates Test Match

Indian batswoman Yastika Bhatia etched her name into history by achieving a magnificent maiden Test century, becoming the first woman to score a Test century at Lord’s Cricket Ground. The historic innings unfolded during the ongoing one-off Test against England, where her composed approach on Day 3 left an indelible mark on the venue’s annals.

Bhatia reached the three-figure milestone with a steadily built innings, starting with a single off England bowler Issy Wong. After absorbing the cheers around her, she removed her helmet, raised her bat in acknowledgment of the crowd and her teammates, and bowed respectfully to the pitch in an emotional display of triumph. Her achievement secured her place on the prestigious Lord’s Honours Board.

Her innings concluded at 113 from 158 deliveries, featuring 14 fours, before Sophie Ecclestone struck a decisive blow with a miscued lofted shot caught by Mady Villiers at point. The Lord’s crowd erupted in a standing ovation, celebrating her exceptional performance. Notably, this century also stands as the highest score by an Indian woman in the third or fourth innings of a Test match.

List of Highest Scores in 3rd/4th Innings of a Women’s Test

• 113 – Yastika Bhatia vs England, Lord’s (2026)
• 98 – Sandhya Agarwal vs New Zealand, Lucknow (1985)
• 83 – Sandhya Agarwal vs Australia, Wankhede (1984)
• 80* – Sneh Rana vs England, Bristol (2021)
• 75 – Gargi Banerjee vs England, Blackpool (1986)
• 72 – Gargi Banerjee vs Australia, Wankhede (1984)

Bhatia’s Innings Propels India Beyond 400

Bhatia’s landmark century propelled India to a commanding lead of over 400 runs in the Test. Earlier, Smriti Mandhana’s fluent 70 laid a solid foundation following India’s first-innings victory of 170. With an initial advantage of 115, India consolidated their dominance, edging closer to securing a historic maiden Women’s Test win at Lord’s.

Source link