Yastika Bhatia: Historic Lord’s Test Century Anchors India’s Dominance as India Women stand on the verge of a historic maiden Test victory at Lord’s. On a dominant third day, Yastika Bhatia’s record-breaking maiden century powered India, before bowlers reduced England to 130/6, chasing an improbable 457-run target. With just four wickets needed, Harmanpreet Kaur’s side is in full control despite a spirited lower-order fight from Amy Jones and Mady Villiers.
Resuming Day 3 with a healthy first-innings lead, India added runs despite England’s improved bowling. Lauren Bell dismissed Smriti Mandhana (70) and Jemimah Rodrigues, while Sophie Ecclestone trapped Harmanpreet Kaur lbw, briefly reviving England’s hopes. However, Yastika Bhatia remained unfazed, displaying composure and elegant strokeplay to become the first woman to score a Test hundred at Lord’s. Her 113 off 158 balls is the highest score by an Indian woman in a Test’s third or fourth innings. Ecclestone claimed her fourth five-wicket haul, but lacked support.
Following Bhatia’s departure, Richa Ghosh added late fireworks with an unbeaten 50 off 52 balls. With India’s lead over 450, Harmanpreet declared at 341/7, setting England a massive target. India’s pacers then ripped through England’s top order. Debutant Kranti Gaud and Sayali Satghare removed openers Tammy Beaumont and Maia Bouchier early. Beaumont’s wicket ended her international career, while Heather Knight, playing her final Test, received a guard of honour after Kranti Gaud dismissed her. Sneh Rana bowled Nat Sciver-Brunt, and Sayali breached Alice Capsey’s defence, leaving England at 59/5.
Just when victory seemed imminent, Amy Jones and Mady Villiers mounted a 67-run partnership, frustrating India’s attack. Richa Ghosh broke the stand with a stunning catch to dismiss Villiers off Sneh Rana. Jones completed a gritty half-century, but England ended at 130/6, needing 327 more runs. India’s dominant performance, anchored by Yastika Bhatia’s historic century, puts them on the brink of a memorable win at Lord’s.