Yastika Bhatia scores maiden Test century as India sets massive target

London, 12 July – Yastika Bhatia became the first woman to notch a Test century at the iconic Lord’s ground, rescuing India with a dazzling 113 in the second innings of the historic women’s Test against England. Her innings, packed with 14 fours, helped India declare at 341 for seven, leaving England a steep 457‑run target.

India’s first‑innings total of 285 rested on Smriti Mandhana’s 83 and a pivotal 89‑run stand with captain Harmanpreet Kaur, who added 58. Deepti Sharma contributed 57, and the pair of bowlers from England, led by Sophie Ecclestone, each took three wickets.

England’s reply of 170 fell short despite a late partnership between Nat Sciver‑Brunt (44) and Amy Jones (52). Kranti Gowda’s five‑wicket effort was the standout for India.

The chase on day three saw England limp to 130 for six after 40 overs, still 327 runs shy of the target with four wickets in hand. The match now pivots on the final day, with India only four wickets away from sealing a place in cricket history.

Bhatia’s milestone, coupled with Richa Ghosh’s unbeaten 52, underscores the depth of India’s batting and the importance of their bowling unit in defending the massive total.