During the recently concluded one-off Test between Indian and South African women, the Indian openers Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma created a new world record by posting the highest-ever partnership for any women’s Test opening stand.
Their 292-run partnership for the fourth wicket was the highest by any team, and it also became the highest by any Pakistani women player, originating Sajjida Shah and Kiran Baluch, a record of 241 against the West Indies in 2004.
It was additionally the second-highest partnership for any wicket in women’s Test cricket after the 309-run partnership between Australia’s LA Reeler and DA Annetts against England in 1987.
Despite this, the Indian pair produced a mind-blowing performance when, only three years ago, they recorded a personal highest of 167 on the English in 2021. On Friday, they came out to bat and again displayed the wonders of understanding between them and the powerful blows on the first day of the play against the South African bowlers.
Mandhana came very close to getting what she deserved, 150; she got out on 149 Verma, however, continued her carnage and became the fourth Indian woman to score a Test hundred, being 165 not out at the tea interval. India returned strongly and ended the day at 334/2; Satheesh Shubha the other Indian batswoman was disposed for 15.
This is arguably the longest partnership record that has placed India in a commanding position right from the onset of the one-off Test that started today in order to further rule through the second day and beyond.
