Indian spinner Rajeshwari Gayakwad produced a moment of brilliance during the one-off Test match between India Women and South Africa Women in Chennai. Her lightning-fast direct hit to dismiss Tumi Sekhukhune in the third innings became a pivotal moment, edging the visitors closer to defeat.
The four-day Test match saw the hosts dominate from the outset. India posted their highest-ever total of 603/6 declared in the first innings, thanks to stellar performances by Shafali Verma, who scored 205, and Smriti Mandhana, who added 149.
India’s bowlers then bowled out South Africa for 266 in their first innings. Forced to follow on, the visitors showed more resilience in their second innings but continued to struggle against India’s formidable bowling attack.
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On day four, with Laura Wolvaardt and Sune Luus fighting hard to save the Test, Gayakwad’s fielding brilliance came at a crucial moment. In the 135th over of South Africa’s second innings, with the score at 324/6, Pooja Vastrakar bowled a back-of-a-length delivery to Nadine de Klerk. De Klerk nudged the ball towards the off-side and called for a single.
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However, Sekhukhune, her partner, was caught ball-watching instead of responding to the call, leading to a mix-up. Positioned strategically, Gayakwad seized the opportunity. With lightning reflexes, she gathered the ball and executed a precise throw that hit the stumps directly, catching Sekhukhune short of her crease.
This dismissal broke a crucial partnership and triggered a collapse in the South African innings. Shortly after, Sneh Rana dismissed Sinalo Jafta, further diminishing the visitors’ chances of salvaging a draw.
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India’s bowlers completed the job by bundling South Africa out for 373. Needing just 37 runs to win, India achieved the target with all ten wickets in hand, securing a comprehensive victory. This win put India 2-0 up in the multi-format series, which also included a three-match ODI triumph.
