India Women vs South Africa Women LIVE Score, One-off Test Day 1: Shafali, Smriti Combine for 50-Run Stand vs SA-W

India Women vs South Africa Women LIVE Score, One-off Test Day 1: Shafali, Smriti Combine for 50-run Stand.

                        Welcome to the live coverage of the India Women vs South Africa Women one-off Test at the M.A. Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. The match, a rare occasion for women's Test cricket, promises a thrilling day of action as we bring you live updates and scores from Day 1. Our focus today is on the stellar performance of openers Shafali Verma and Smriti Mandhana, who have set the tone with a strong opening partnership.

Toss and Team Updates

India won the toss and opted to bat first, a decision influenced by the dry and spin-friendly pitch at Chepauk. The Indian team, led by Harmanpreet Kaur, includes a mix of experienced players and promising young talents. South Africa, captained by Laura Wolvaardt, faces a challenging day ahead, especially with India's formidable spin attack.

Steady Start for India

As the match commenced at 9:30 am IST, Shafali Verma and Smriti Mandhana walked out to open the innings. The first over bowled by Masabata Klaas was cautiously played, with India scoring three runs. The following overs saw both openers settling in, playing risk-free cricket and ensuring a steady start for their team.

Building Momentum

By the 14th over, India had reached 50 without losing a wicket, thanks to some exquisite shots by Smriti Mandhana. She capitalised on a full toss from Tumi Sekhukhune, driving it past mid-on for a boundary. Shafali Verma, not to be left behind, showcased her prowess by lofting one over mid-on for six off Nonkululeko Mlaba. The duo's solid partnership laid a strong foundation, putting pressure on the South African bowlers.

Shafali and Smriti’s Dominance

In the 18th over, Shafali Verma continued her aggressive approach, hitting consecutive fours off Mlaba. Smriti Mandhana joined the party, pulling a short ball from Nadine de Klerk to the boundary. Their partnership reached a milestone with Mandhana punching one through extra cover for a single, bringing up the 50-run stand in the 23rd over.

Several key moments marked the first session. Smriti Mandhana's composed batting, combined with Shafali Verma's attacking style, kept the scoreboard ticking. Notably, in the 20th over, Shafali drove an over-pitched delivery straight down the ground for four, highlighting her impeccable timing.

South Africa’s Bowling Challenges

South Africa's bowlers, led by Klaas and Dercksen, struggled to find breakthroughs. Despite some tight overs, the Indian openers managed to keep the scoreboard moving. Klaas's accurate line and length posed some challenges, but the Indian duo’s confidence and technique prevailed.

The Pitch Factor

The red soil pitch at Chepauk, known for its spin-friendly nature, was expected to be a significant factor. However, in the initial overs, it seemed more conducive to batting, with little assistance for the bowlers. As the day progresses, the pitch might offer more turn, testing the skills of both sides.

Looking Ahead

As we head into the lunch break, India stands strong at 90/0 in 22 overs, with both openers looking set for big scores. The upcoming sessions will be crucial for South Africa, as they aim to break this partnership and gain control of the game.

Stay tuned for more updates and live scores from the India Women vs South Africa Women one-off Test at M.A. Chidambaram Stadium. Follow our live coverage to catch every moment of this exciting match.

The India Women vs South Africa Women one-off Test has started with a bang, thanks to the brilliant opening stand by Shafali Verma and Smriti Mandhana. Their 50-run partnership has put India in a commanding position early on Day 1. As the match progresses, both teams will have to adapt to the changing conditions and strategise accordingly. Don't miss any action as we bring you live updates and scores from Chennai.