Day 2 Recap: India in Command as South Africa Fights Back in Historic Women's Test

South Africa have batted well to post 236/4, with the trail of 367 runs at the end of the second day // IMAGE - BCCI

In a match already brimming with records and high drama, Day 2 of the Only Test between India and South Africa Women's teams proved to be a gripping contest. The visitors showed grit and determination, closing the day at 236/4, trailing India by 367 runs.

India's Record-Breaking Total 

Resuming on a formidable overnight score, Indian stalwarts Harmanpreet Kaur and Richa Ghosh continued their stellar partnership. Both batters notched up well-deserved half-centuries, propelling India to a record-breaking 603/6 declared—the highest total ever in women's Test cricket. The declaration came just before lunch, setting the stage for a challenging South African reply.

South Africa's openers survived a tense final session before lunch, but the pressure was relentless. After the break, India struck quickly. Sneh Rana, the pick of the bowlers, removed the prolific Laura Wolvaardt, putting South Africa on the back foot.

Marizanne Kapp and Nadine de Klerk have put up the South African wall again with Kapp batting at an unbeaten 69 runs off 125 balls, and de Klerk going along well at 27 runs from 28 balls. // IMAGE - BCCI

However, Sune Luus and Anneke Bosch held firm, stitching a crucial 63-run partnership. Bosch's resistance ended with a gritty 39 off 73 balls, courtesy of another Rana special just before tea.

The final session saw South Africa’s fightback gain momentum. Marizanne Kapp and Sune Luus showcased their resilience, forging a solid 93-run stand. Luus's marathon innings of 65 off 164 balls was a masterclass in patience and determination, though it ended when Deepti Sharma trapped her leg-before.

India’s joy was compounded as Sneh Rana struck again, dismissing Delmi Tucker for a duck. But Kapp, unbeaten on 69 off 125 balls, stood tall alongside Nadine de Klerk, who contributed a brisk 27 off 28 balls, frustrating the Indian bowlers and ensuring no further damage before stumps.