The Indian women's cricket team is currently touring England, engaging in a highly anticipated Test match at the legendary Lord's Cricket Ground. As the second day of the match concluded, India firmly established its dominance, fueled largely by the brilliance of 22-year-old fast bowler Kranti Gaud. Gaud played a pivotal role in dismantling the England women's team, restricting them to just 170 runs in their first innings. During her 17-over spell, she was incredibly economical, bowling 7 maidens and conceding only 37 runs while claiming 5 crucial wickets. By achieving this five-wicket haul, Kranti Gaud has etched her name into history, becoming the first female cricketer to earn a spot on the prestigious Lord's Honors Board.
Surpassing the Record Held by Jhulan Goswami
Upon winning the toss, the Indian team elected to bat first on the grassy surface of the Lord's pitch. India's first innings ended at a total of 285 runs just before the close of the opening day. England had already lost a wicket by the end of that first day, but the struggles continued on day two against the relentless bowling of Kranti Gaud. Beyond the milestone of the five-wicket haul, Gaud eclipsed the record previously held by the iconic former Indian pacer Jhulan Goswami. Kranti is now the youngest Indian female fast bowler to take five wickets in a single Test innings, achieving this feat at the age of 22 years and 225 days. When Jhulan Goswami claimed her five-wicket haul against England in New Delhi in 2005, she was exactly 28 days older than Kranti is now.
India Tightens Grip on the Lord's Test
Thanks to the exceptional bowling display by Kranti Gaud, India secured a significant 115-run lead following the first innings. As the curtains drew on the second day of play, the Indian team had reached 154 for the loss of one wicket in their second innings, with Smriti Mandhana batting on 69 and Yastika Bhatia on 39. India's overall lead has now surged to 269 runs. Entering the third day, the visitors will look to extend their advantage beyond the 300-run mark, aiming to eliminate any possibility of an English resurgence in the contest.
