An intense opening day of cricket at Lord’s saw England end at 21/1, trailing India by 264 runs after bowling them out for 285. Sophie Ecclestone shone with the ball, becoming England’s top wicket-taker and third overall. Smriti Mandhana’s 83 runs led India’s innings, including a milestone 300th international appearance.
England’s reply started shakily, losing Tammy Beaumont early, but Maia Bouchier and Heather Knight steadied the ship. India’s spinners showed promise late in the day, hinting at challenges for England on day two. The match marks the first women’s Test at Lord’s, with England taking crucial wickets in the action-packed first session.
India’s top order displayed resilience, with Smriti and Harmanpreet Kaur frustrating England before the hosts fought back post-lunch. Harmanpreet battled through discomfort to reach a half-century, but England’s bowlers eventually broke their partnership. India’s lower order struggled, with Sophie and Mady wrapping up the innings efficiently.
In their brief innings, England faced a tough spell from India’s bowlers, losing Tammy early. Maia and Heather held firm, with Maia finishing unbeaten on 17. The day ended with England at 21/1, trailing India by 264 runs in this historic Women’s Test at Lord’s.
