Shafali Verma And Smriti Mandhana Break Test Partnership Record For India Women

In a historic feat, Shafali Verma and Smriti Mandhana have etched their names in the record books for India Women in Test cricket. Their partnership on Day 1 of the only Test match against South Africa Women became the highest-ever for India Women in Test cricket.

The duo's opening stand was remarkable, accumulating 292 runs off just 312 balls. Shafali Verma, at just 20 years old, contributed a stellar 141 runs from 151 balls. Meanwhile, vice-captain Smriti Mandhana added 149 runs off 161 balls to this record-breaking partnership.

• 292 - Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma vs South Africa (Chennai, 2024)
• 275 - Thirush Kamini and Poonam Raut vs South Africa (Mysore, 2014)
• 167 - Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma vs England (Bristol, 2021)
• 157 - Jhulan Goswami and Mithali Raj vs England (Taunton, 2002)
• 153 - Sandhya Agarwal and Gargi Banerjee vs Australia (Wankhede, 1984)

Mandhana's innings were particularly noteworthy as she fell just one run short of her first score of over 150 in Test cricket. Her innings included an impressive tally of 27 fours and a six. This performance followed her back-to-back centuries in the preceding ODI series against South Africa.

In that ODI series, Mandhana was dismissed for 90 runs in the third and final match, contributing significantly to India's clean sweep with a 3-0 margin. Her form has been exceptional throughout these matches.

Meanwhile, Haryana-born Shafali Verma achieved her maiden Test century during this match. By the time of reporting, she had already hit 20 fours and six sixes. The right-handed batter was just 30 runs shy of reaching a double century.

This remarkable partnership between Mandhana and Verma not only set a new benchmark but also showcased their exceptional skills and synergy on the field. Their performance is a testament to the growing strength and talent within Indian women's cricket.

Their achievement will be remembered as a significant milestone in Indian women's cricket history. It highlights the potential and promise these young cricketers bring to the game.