India
Rana’s 10-Wicket Haul Seals India’s Victory Over South Africa. India claimed a decisive victory over South Africa by 10 wickets in the one-off Test at Chepauk, sealing the win in the final session of the last day. The match was marked by stellar performances from Shafali Verma, who scored a double-century, Smriti Mandhana’s 149, and Sneh Rana’s remarkable 10-wicket haul. Despite their defeat, South Africa showcased commendable resilience, battling hard for nearly 240 overs in challenging conditions.
South Africa’s Gritty Performance
On the final day, South Africa began on 232 for 2, trailing by 105 runs, with Laura Wolvaardt nearing her maiden century. Wolvaardt reached her hundred off 259 balls, skillfully punishing any loose deliveries. However, Deepti Sharma soon trapped Marizanne Kapp lbw, and Jemimah Rodrigues took a sharp catch at cover to dismiss Delmi Tucker off Rana’s bowling. Rajeshwari Gayakwad then bowled Wolvaardt for 122, delivering a quicker ball that trapped her in front.
Despite these setbacks, South Africa fought back, scoring 34 runs in 29 overs during a quiet afternoon session. Nadine de Klerk played a crucial role, demonstrating exceptional patience and endurance. She batted for 213 minutes, scoring her maiden Test fifty off 174 balls with seven fours. Her resilience almost led South Africa to an improbable draw.
India’s Final Push for Victory
At tea, South Africa was 336 for 8, trailing by just one run, with hopes of batting out the remaining overs. However, Shafali Verma, in her third over, bowled Masabata Klaas with a turning delivery. Gayakwad then dismissed de Klerk with a flighted ball, ending her valiant innings. South Africa managed to gain a slender lead of 36 runs, but it was not enough.
Shafali and Shubha Satheesh, who batted ahead of Mandhana, chased down the target in 9.2 overs, securing India’s victory.
Shifting Focus to T20Is
As the focus now shifts to the upcoming T20I series, this Test match at Chepauk will be remembered for its thrilling cricket, marking the return of women’s Test cricket to the venue for the first time since 1976.
India’s victory, bolstered by Rana’s outstanding 10-wicket haul, sets a promising tone for the upcoming matches, showcasing the team’s strength and determination in the longest format of the game.
