Cricket

Shafali Verma Blazes to Record-Breaking Double Century in Women's Test CricketIndian opener Shafali Verma has etched her name in the annals of women's cricket history by smashing the fastest double-century in Test cricket. During the one-off match against South Africa in Lucknow, the 20-year-old prodigy surpassed Australia's Annabel Sutherland's previous record of 248 balls. Verma achieved the milestone in a mere 194 deliveries, showcasing her exceptional batting prowess.Verma's blistering knock propelled her to become the second Indian woman after former captain Mithali Raj to score a double century in Test cricket. Raj had achieved the feat in 2002, scoring 214 off 407 balls against England.Throughout her aggressive innings, Verma displayed her power-hitting abilities, striking 23 boundaries and eight towering sixes. She reached her double century with consecutive sixes off off-spinner Delmi Tucker, followed by a single. Her remarkable knock was eventually halted when she was run out for 205 off 197 balls.Verma's opening partner, Smriti Mandhana, also played a crucial role in India's dominant performance. Mandhana scored a brilliant 149 off 161 balls, including 27 boundaries and one six. Together, the duo formed a formidable opening partnership of 292 runs, which came off just 52 overs.India has been in complete control of the opening day against South Africa, scoring at a blistering pace close to a run-a-ball. Verma's record-breaking double century has set the tone for a potential Indian victory in the one-off Test match.