Shafali, Mandhana dominate South Africa on historic opening day in Chennai

In a spectacular display of batting prowess, India amassed a record-breaking 525 for 4 on the opening day of the one-off Test against South Africa in Chennai. Shafali Verma’s breathtaking double century, coupled with Smriti Mandhana’s brilliant 149, highlighted India’s dominance. This remarkable total, the highest number of runs scored in a single day in Test history, underscored the vast gulf between the two teams in red-ball cricket.

A Record-Breaking Opening Stand

Opting to bat first on a red-soil surface, India took a cautious approach in the first hour, focusing on not losing wickets rather than aggressive run-scoring. Despite the measured start, the duo of Shafali Verma and Smriti Mandhana quickly found their rhythm. They scored 130 runs in the morning session, setting the stage for a record-breaking day. South Africa’s bowlers struggled to find consistency, with Marizanne Kapp dropping a crucial half-chance when Mandhana was on 33. This reprieve allowed Mandhana and Verma to settle in and begin dispatching loose deliveries to the boundary with increasing regularity.

Shafali Verma’s Maiden Double Century

The afternoon session saw India accelerate their scoring rate significantly, adding 204 runs in 32 overs while losing only two wickets. Shafali Verma, in particular, was relentless. She scored her maiden double century in Test cricket, becoming the youngest Indian woman to do so. Verma’s 197-ball knock was a masterclass in controlled aggression, with 142 of her runs coming on the on-side. She launched eight fours and five sixes towards square leg and long-on, showcasing her power and precision. This innings marked a significant turnaround for Verma, who had struggled in the preceding ODI series.

Smriti Mandhana’s Consistent Form

While Verma’s explosive innings grabbed headlines, Smriti Mandhana’s contribution was equally crucial. Mandhana continued her fine form from the ODI series, scoring a fluent 149 off 161 balls. Her innings was marked by exquisite cover drives and authoritative pulls, with 27 boundaries and one six. Mandhana’s ability to dominate both spin and pace ensured that the scoreboard kept ticking over at a healthy rate. Her dismissal, edging to first slip in the 52nd over, ended a record 292-run opening stand, the backbone of India’s formidable total.

Jemimah Rodrigues and India’s Middle Order Flourish

Following Mandhana’s departure, Jemimah Rodrigues took center stage. She oozed class with her third half-century in this format, scoring 55 runs off 60 balls. Rodrigues and Verma added a brisk 86 runs off 91 balls, with Verma contributing 48 runs off 31 balls. A mix-up in the 75th over ended Verma’s stay, but by then, India was already in a commanding position. Satheesh Shubha, returning from injury, also made a solid contribution before edging to the wicketkeeper just before tea.

South Africa’s Struggles

South Africa’s bowlers toiled throughout the day, unable to find a consistent line or length to trouble the Indian batters. Captain Laura Wolvaardt employed seven different bowlers in an attempt to break partnerships and stem the flow of runs. The decision to delay the introduction of Sune Luus, who switched from legspin to offspin, raised eyebrows. Luus’s three-over spell went for five runs an over, epitomizing South Africa’s struggles. The pitch offered some turn late in the day, but by then, India had already inflicted significant damage.

Late Contributions and Record Total

In the final session, India continued to pile on the runs. Harmanpreet Kaur and Richa Ghosh, both unbeaten on 42 and 43 respectively, ensured that India finished the day on a high. Delmi Tucker was the most successful South African bowler, picking up two wickets, but her efforts were overshadowed by India’s dominance. The crowd at Chepauk witnessed a historic day as India posted the highest single-day total in Test cricket history.

Looking Ahead

India’s commanding performance on Day 1 has put them in a dominant position in this one-off Test. With a massive first-innings total on the board, the pressure is now squarely on South Africa to respond. India’s bowlers will look to exploit any early movement and capitalize on the scoreboard pressure. For South Africa, the challenge will be to regroup and put up a fighting response against a confident Indian bowling attack. As the match progresses, the spotlight will remain on how South Africa’s batters cope with the pressure and whether India can maintain their momentum to secure a comprehensive victory.

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