On the second day of the one-off Test between India Women and Australia Women at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai, a thrilling display unfolded as India managed to secure a substantial lead against the Aussies, finishing at 376/7 at stumps.
After a shaky start that saw India lose four wickets for just 18 runs before Tea, a remarkable resurgence ensued. Smriti Mandhana's resilient 74, Jemimah Rodrigues' composed 73, Richa Ghosh's impactful 52, and Deepti Sharma's unbeaten 70* steered India to a commanding position, establishing a 157-run lead with three wickets still in hand.
Deepti Sharma and Pooja Vastrakar's resilient partnership of 102 runs for the eighth wicket, lasting 143 minutes and 242 balls, salvaged India from a precarious 276/7 at Tea to a commanding position by stumps. Their partnership has put India in a favorable position to extend their lead on the third day.
The day saw multiple impressive performances, with Mandhana's cautious yet productive innings setting the tone for India's resilience. Rodrigues and Ghosh contributed pivotal half-centuries, steering India ahead after Australia's first-innings total of 219.
However, a post-drinks acceleration attempt triggered a collapse as Ghosh, Harmanpreet Kaur, Yastika Bhatia, and Jemimah lost their wickets in quick succession, leaving India at 274/7.
Yet again, Deepti Sharma showcased her prowess, forming a vital partnership with Vastrakar, resurrecting India's innings. Sharma's consistent performances, including her second successive half-century, demonstrated her resilience in difficult conditions.
Ashleigh Gardner's impactful spell of 4-100 was pivotal for Australia, curtailing India's progress in the second session. Her crucial breakthroughs halted India's momentum, posing a challenge for the hosts.
With India leading by 157 runs and three wickets in hand, the match is finely poised for an intriguing third day, offering the potential for India to extend their lead and set a formidable target for the Australians.
(With Agency Inputs)
