South Africa Fights Back on Day 3 of Only Test Against India

Sune Luus became just the 5th batter to score a Test match century for South Africa in women's cricket // IMAGE - ICC

South Africa showcased remarkable resilience on Day 3 of the Only Test against India, closing the day at 232/2 in their second innings, trailing by 105 runs after being forced to follow on.

The day began with South Africa battling in their first innings, but India swiftly dismantled the remaining six wickets to bowl them out for 266, courtesy of Sneh Rana's exceptional figures of 8/77. Facing a massive deficit, South Africa lost Anneke Bosch early in their second innings, adding to their woes.

However, South African skipper Laura Wolvaardt and No. 3 Sune Luus staged a commendable fightback in the afternoon session, ensuring no further damage. The pair put together a century-plus partnership for the second wicket, steering South Africa away from the brink of an innings defeat.

In the final session, Sune Luus reached her century, becoming only the fifth South African woman to achieve the milestone in Test cricket, while Laura Wolvaardt secured a well-deserved half-century. The partnership was eventually broken by Indian skipper Harmanpreet Kaur, who dismissed Luus for 109, ending a 190-run stand.

Laura Wolvaardt remains unbeaten at 93, alongside Marizanne Kapp, as South Africa looks to extend their fight on Day 4. India, aiming to replicate their morning success, will seek to wrap up the South African innings swiftly to prevent a significant shift in the match's momentum.