Yastika Bhatia etched her name in the history books with a magnificent Test century, becoming the first woman to score a Test Hundred at Lord’s Cricket Ground during the ongoing one-off Test against England.The Indian wicketkeeper-batter reached the three-figure mark on Day 3 – July 12 with a composed single off Issy Wong before drawing applause from all corners of the iconic venue. He removed his helmet, raised his bat to acknowledge the crowd and his teammates, and took a bow on the pitch in an emotional celebration as his name was reserved for the prestigious Lord’s Honors Board.Bhatia eventually departed for an incredible 113 off 158 balls, with 14 boundaries, after Sophie Ecclestone prompted a mistimed lofted shot that Mady Villiers took safely to point. As he walked back, the host of the Lord stood up.
Historic feat for India
Bhatia’s innings was not only her maiden Test century but also the highest score by an Indian woman in the third or fourth innings of a Test match.Highest scores in the third/fourth innings of a Women’s Test for India.
- 113 – Yastika Bhatia v England, Lord’s (2026)
- 98 – Sandhya Agarwal v New Zealand, Lucknow (1985)
- 83 – Sandhya Agarwal v Australia, Wankhede (1984)
- 80* – Sneh Rana v England, Bristol (2021)
- 75 – Gargi Banerjee v England, Blackpool (1986)
- 72 – Gargi Banerjee v Australia, Wankhede (1984)
His century came at a crucial time for India, as the historic knock boosted the visitors to a massive 400-plus lead. Backed by Smriti Mandhana’s 70, India strengthened their grip on the one-off Test after bowling out England for 170 in the first innings. Starting their second innings with a 115-run lead, India continued to pile on the runs and now stand on the cusp of winning their first ever Women’s Test at Lord’s.