Chennai,28.06.2024 : On a memorable opening day of the Test match in Chennai, India (shafali) showcased their dominance over South Africa, piling up an incredible 525 runs for 4 wickets, setting a new record for the Shafali most runs scored in a single day of Test cricket.
Shafali Verma Shines with Record-Breaking Performance
The star of the day was young Shafali Verma, who stunned everyone with a brilliant 205 runs. Partnering with Smriti Mandhana, who also impressed with 149 runs, the duo put on a massive 292-run opening stand. Their partnership laid a solid foundation for India, making it a tough day for the South African bowlers.
India won the toss and decided to bat on a red-soil pitch. They started cautiously in the first hour but quickly picked up the pace, scoring 130 runs by lunch. South Africa struggled to find the right lengths and missed key chances, including a dropped catch by Marizanne Kapp when Mandhana was on 33.
The afternoon session saw India accelerating further, adding 204 runs in just 32 overs while losing only two wickets. Shafali, reaching her first double century in Tests, was in spectacular form, especially on the on-side, hitting eight sixes and many boundaries. Mandhana complemented her well, hitting 27 fours and a six in her 161-ball innings.
South Africa finally broke the opening partnership after 52 overs when Mandhana edged a ball to first slip. Shafali continued to dominate, using her strong wrists to keep the scoreboard moving quickly. By tea, India was comfortably placed at 334 for 2.
In the final session, Shafali converted her 150 to 200, delighting the 3000-strong crowd at Chepauk. She and Jemimah Rodrigues added 86 runs together before a mix-up ended Shafali’s magnificent innings. Despite the hot and humid conditions, Shafali thrived, proving her mettle in her first international match at this venue.
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South Africa struggled throughout the day, trying seven different bowlers. Even experienced players like Sune Luus were unable to stop the flow of runs. Towards the end of the day, Rodrigues scored 55, while Harmanpreet Kaur and Richa Ghosh remained unbeaten on 42 and 43 respectively.
Delmi Tucker managed to take two wickets for South Africa, but the day truly belonged to Shafali Verma, who led India to a historic and dominant position in the match.
Shafali Shines as India Dominates South Africa in Historic Test Match https://t.co/Np4MgkPOWV via @snapnews_24 #ShafaliVerma #shafali
— Snap News (@snapnews_24) June 28, 2024
