India women's cricket team scripted history with first-ever Test triumph against Australia

Digital Desk: In a historic moment for Indian women's cricket, the Harmanpreet Kaur-led team secured their first-ever Test victory against Australia. The thrilling triumph unfolded at the iconic Wankhede Stadium on the fourth and final day of the one-off Test in the multi-format series. Chasing a modest target of 75 runs, Smriti Mandhana and Richa Ghosh showcased exceptional composure, guiding India to an emphatic 8-wicket win.

The significance of this victory resonates beyond the final score, marking India's maiden triumph over the Aussies in 11 Test encounters. Playing more than one Test at home for the first time since 1995, the Indian team exhibited a remarkable display of skill and strategy, leaving little room for error throughout the match.

The foundation for this historic win was laid by the bowlers, who successfully bundled out Australia for 261 in the second innings. On the final morning, Sneh Rana and Rajeshwari Gayakwad played pivotal roles, claiming the last five wickets for a mere 28 runs in 15.4 overs. The Wankhede pitch, known for its variable bounce and sharp turn, proved advantageous for the Indian bowlers.

The first day set the tone for India's dominance as they dismissed Australia for 219 and then posted an imposing total of 406 in their first innings. Contributions from Smriti Mandhana, Richa Ghosh, Jemimah Rodrigues, and Deepti Sharma, all scoring half-centuries, showcased the team's batting prowess.

The chase of 75 runs in the fourth innings had its moments of tension. Shafali Verma's early dismissal added an element of uncertainty, but Richa Ghosh and Smriti Mandhana's unbeaten partnership steered India to victory. Ghosh survived a close call when a delivery from Ashleigh Gardner turned sharply, eluding the keeper and resulting in four byes. A subsequent chance at first slip for Ghosh, put down by Beth Mooney, added more drama to the encounter.

Mandhana's elegant stroke play and Ghosh's resilience under pressure were evident as they secured the historic win. Mandhana's consecutive boundaries off Kim Garth showcased her class, while Ghosh's stroke of luck, surviving a dropped catch, proved crucial in the context of the game.

The match concluded on a fortunate note for India, with Tahlia McGrath's misfield allowing a boundary off Richa Ghosh's drive in the seventh over. This victory not only highlights the individual contributions but also signifies a collective effort by the entire Indian women's cricket team.

In the wake of this triumph, Indian women's cricket takes a giant leap forward, breaking new ground and inspiring a generation of aspiring cricketers. The resilience, skill, and determination displayed by the team against a formidable opponent make this victory a memorable chapter in the history of Indian women's cricket.