England’s women's cricket team achieved a historic victory on Tuesday, defeating South Africa by 286 runs. This remarkable win marks England's first Test victory since 2014 and has set the stage for their upcoming Ashes series against Australia.
The win came during the one-off Test match held at the Mangaung Oval in Bloemfontein, where the Proteas were set an imposing target of 351 runs to chase down. Sadly for South Africa, they faltered dramatically, collapsing to just 64 all out, which is now their lowest innings score in women's Test history.
Leading the charge for England was pace bowler Lauren Bell, who delivered stunning figures of 4 for 27, making her presence known as wickets fell with alarming speed. Spinner Sophie Ecclestone complemented her efforts well, picking up two wickets for merely seven runs. England had built up their strength from the day before, and by the time the third day's play began, they were determined to capitalize on their lead of 145 runs.
During their second innings, England was bowled out for 236, with captain Heather Knight playing the anchor role with a solid 90 off 191 balls. Knight's knock included ten well-struck fours and showcased her ability to withstand the opposition's bowling attack, particularly against the disciplined Nonkululeko Mlaba, who took six wickets for 67 runs, becoming the first South African woman to claim ten wickets across both innings of a Test match.
While England seemed to have the upper hand, the absence of the Decision Review System (DRS) was a contentious point throughout the match. Despite being used effectively during the preceding white-ball series, the lack of DRS for this Test match led to several contentious decisions, most notable being the disputed wicket of Annerie Dercksen. Initially not out, Dercksen was eventually ruled caught at short leg from Bell's bowling after consulting the third umpire. This decision infuriated South African players, and their frustration was palpable as they lost confidence and rapidly succumbed. From 22 for 3, South Africa slid to 64 all out, losing their last seven wickets for just 42 runs.
Going back to England’s innings, the hosts began the third day at 145 runs lead, focusing on building their advantage. Bell and fellow speedster Lauren Filer struck early, dismissing Wolvaardt and Bosch for mere scores of four runs each, setting South Africa on the back foot early. The atmosphere turned increasingly grim for South Africa post-lunch, particularly after Knight's dismissal marked the beginning of England's defensive strategy turning decidedly offensive.
Marizanne Kapp, the South African captain, was the best of the batters, managing 21 runs, but she could do little against the mounting pressure. Much of the South African batting lineup simply crumbled, unable to counteract Bell’s impressive speed and the spin of Ecclestone. Bell's wickets, including Wolvaardt and later Kapp, ensured the hosts looked lost at sea soon after they regained play for the final session of the day.
This victory not only boosts the morale of the English squad but also provides them with ample momentum heading to Australia for the much-anticipated Ashes series set to begin next January. England's coach and captain shared their pride, expressing how significant this win was for the team as they continue to strengthen their presence on the international women's cricket stage.
The fallout from this match undoubtedly revolves around both the performance and the decisions made on the field, with many discussions likely to continue about the DRS and its use—or lack thereof—in women's cricket. Nonetheless, the victory signifies England’s ability to bounce back after challenging years and provides hope as they gear up for future challenges.
Overall, this remarkable Test match will be remembered not only for England's remarkable win but also for the outstanding performances from both teams, signaling exciting times for women's cricket.
