India’s 40-year unbeaten streak in England continues with a historic win at Lord’s

India’s historic 270-run win over England (ANI Photo) India’s emphatic 270-run win over England in the first-ever women’s Test at Lord’s was more than just another famous overseas victory. This further cemented one of the most remarkable records in women’s Test cricket. India are now 40 years unbeaten in a Test match in England. The triumph also preserved India’s unbeaten streak in women’s Tests on English soil. In the 10 Tests played in England since their first tour in 1986, India have won three and drawn seven, with Monday’s victory at Lord’s the latest chapter in a remarkable run that has spanned four decades. In total, India and England have met 16 times in women’s Tests. India now lead the head-to-head with four wins to England’s lone win, while 11 matches have ended in draws. England’s only success was a narrow two-run margin at Jamshedpur in 1995, while India won each of the last two Tests completed between the sides. The last success was built on absolute dominance. After posting 285 in the first innings, India bowled out England for 170 to secure a sizeable lead. Yastika Bhatia then etched her name in the history books by becoming the first woman to score a Test century at Lord’s, her fluent 113 helping India declare to 341 for seven and setting England a formidable target of 457 runs. Smriti Mandhana contributed 70 after scoring 83 in the first innings, while Rich Ghosh’s unbeaten half-century propelled the declaration. England never seriously threatened the chase as the Indian bowlers made expert use of the conditions. Kranti Gaud, who took five wickets in the first innings, added two more in the second to complete the match with seven wickets, while Sneh Rana and Sayali Satghare ensured the pressure never let up. The victory followed India’s 347-run victory over England in Navi Mumbai in 2023 and reaffirmed the visitors’ rising status in the longest format. At a venue steeped in cricketing history, India added another milestone, extending England’s unbeaten streak that now stretches over half a century.