India produced a commanding all-round performance to defeat England by 270 runs in the historic first-ever Women’s Test at Lord’s, registering one of the biggest victories in their red-ball history and extending their unbeaten record in England.
Playing at the iconic venue, which hosted its first Women’s Test 142 years after staging its inaugural men’s Test, Harmanpreet Kaur’s side dominated in all three departments to complete a memorable triumph on Monday.
Set a daunting target of 457, England were bowled out for 186 on the fourth day as India secured their seventh win in the last 11 Women’s Tests, with three draws and only one defeat during that period.
The victory also maintained India’s unbeaten record in Women’s Tests on English soil, with the team yet to lose in 11 matches played in England.
India laid the foundation for the win through a dominant batting display led by Yastika Bhatia, who became the first woman to score a Test century at Lord’s. Her landmark innings helped India declare their second innings at 341 for seven, extending their overall lead to 456 after taking a first-innings advantage of 115.
Smriti Mandhana continued her impressive form with a fluent 70, while Richa Ghosh remained unbeaten on 50 to further frustrate the English bowlers.
Earlier, India had posted 285 in the first innings, powered by Mandhana’s 83, captain Harmanpreet Kaur’s 58 and Deepti Sharma’s 57. England were then dismissed for 170, courtesy of a sensational five-wicket haul from debutant fast bowler Kranti Gaud, giving the visitors a decisive first-innings lead.
England’s chase never gained momentum as Tammy Beaumont was dismissed for a golden duck, while veteran Heather Knight also departed cheaply. Amy Jones and Sophie Ecclestone offered some resistance, with Ecclestone backing up her five-wicket haul in India’s second innings with a determined knock, but the target proved far beyond the hosts.
Deepti Sharma wrapped up the contest with four wickets on the final day as India completed a comprehensive victory at the Home of Cricket.
