India create history with maiden women's Test win at Lord's

India have etched their name in cricketing history with a resounding 270-run victory over England in the first-ever women's Test at Lord's, played in front of a record crowd.

Despite the historic venue hosting its first men's Test in 1884, 142 years later, this match marked the first time a women's Test was held at the iconic ground. India's victory is a landmark achievement, symbolising progress for women's cricket at a venue where women were once barred from the pavilion and dressing rooms.

India won the toss and elected to bat, posting 285 runs in their first innings. Smriti Mandhana scored 83, captain Harmanpreet Kaur 58, and Deepti Sharma 57. In reply, England were bundled out for 170, with fast bowler Kranti Gowda taking a historic five-wicket haul, becoming the first woman to have her name on the Lord's Test honours board.

With a 115-run lead, India pressed on in the second innings. Mandhana made 70, while Yastika Bhatia scored a brilliant 113 off 158 balls to become the first woman to score a century at Lord's in a women's Test. Richa Ghosh remained unbeaten on 50. India declared at 341 for 7, setting England a target of 457 runs. Sophie Ecclestone took five wickets for the hosts.

England's chase was a batting collapse; they were 5 down for just 59 runs. Despite half-centuries from Amy Jones (54) and Sophie Ecclestone (50), England were bowled out for 186, handing India a massive 270-run victory.

Sneh Rana took four wickets in the second innings, while Gowda added two more to her tally for a match haul of seven wickets, earning the Player of the Match award.

The match was the farewell Test for England's legends Tammy Beaumont and Heather Knight, but the occasion ended in disappointment for them. India, however, dominated the historic match to further solidify their legacy in women's cricket.