Indian Women Test. (Photo Source: X(Twitter)
India Women (IND-W) and South Africa Women (SA-W) are set to continue their ongoing multi-format series by squaring off in the one-off Test at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, from June 28. The Harmanpreet Kaur-led side will be keen on putting in yet another show after their recent exploits in the three-match ODI series, which they won 3-0.
The two teams are set to face each other in a Test match for the first time after a decade. India’s most recent Test appearances were in December last year, when they played against England and Australia in quick succession, emerging victorious both times. Given the favorable conditions and the team riding high in confidence, the home side will look to give another upset to the visitors, this time in the longer format of the game.
On the other hand, South Africa’s last Test was in February against Australia in Perth. They suffered a massive defeat by an innings and 284 runs in the one-off affair. Meanwhile, despite falling short in the ODI series against hosts India, the visitors will draw confidence from some impressive individual performances and hope to turn their fortunes in a different format of the game.
MA Chidambaram Stadium Pitch Report
The pitch at Chepauk may be back to its traditional characteristics, particularly for Test matches. Historically, this ground has been known for its slow, spin-friendly surfaces that pose significant challenges for batters. The conditions are likely to favor spinners and bowlers who can effectively vary their deliveries. Interestingly, the Indian Women’s team has played just one Test match at this venue, a drawn game against the West Indies back in 1976.
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IND-W vs SA-W Probable Playing XIs
India Women:
The hosts will be confident coming into this fixture after their recent performance in the white-ball series. Both Harmanpreet Kaur and Smriti Mandhana are currently in solid form and will be looking to do the same in the red-ball format. Deepti Sharma looked in great touch in the ODI series with both bat and ball. Meanwhile, Pooja Vastrakar will be again given the responsibility to lead India’s bowling attack.
Predicted XI:
Shafali Verma, Smriti Mandhana, Dayalan Hemalatha, Jemimah Rodrigues, Harmanpreet Kaur (C), Richa Ghosh (WK), Deepti Sharma, Pooja Vastrakar, Arundhati Reddy, Asha Sobhana, Rajeshwari Gayakwad
South Africa Women:
Skipper Laura Wolvaardt will partner up with Tazmin Brits at the top, along with Marizanne Kapp and Nadine de Klerk in the middle order.
Predicted XI:
Laura Wolvaardt (C), Tazmin Brits, Anneke Bosch, Suné Luus, Marizanne Kapp, Nadine de Klerk, Nondumiso Shangase, Mieke de Ridder (WK), Masabata Klaas, Nonkululeko Mlaba, Ayabonga Khaka
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IND-W vs SA-W Head-to-Head Record in Tests:
Matches Played- 02
India Women won- 02
South Africa Women won- 00
Draw- 00
First Meeting- 19th March, 2002
Last Meeting- 16th November, 2014
IND-W vs SA-W, One-off Test Broadcast Details:
| Date | Timing | Live Streaming |
| Friday, June 28-July 01, 2024 | 09:30 AM (IST) | Sports 18 Network and JioCinema (app and website) |