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Indian wicketkeeper-batter Yastika Bhatia has described her historic Test century at Lord’s as a deeply emotional moment, saying it felt “like standing before God” after becoming the first woman cricketer to score a Test hundred at the iconic venue. The 25-year-old’s unbeaten determination and remarkable comeback from a career-threatening ACL injury culminated in a memorable 113 off 158 balls against England, helping India script a landmark victory in the first-ever women’s Test at Lord’s.
Speaking after being felicitated by the Baroda Cricket Association, Bhatia compared the experience to visiting a temple and seeing God. She said the emotions of overcoming an 18-month rehabilitation period came flooding back as she reached the three-figure mark and earned a place on the prestigious Lord’s Honours Board.
Bhatia revealed that India women’s head coach Amol Muzumdar had often motivated the team by reminding them of the possibility of getting their names on the famous honours board. She also credited teammate Smriti Mandhana for providing constant encouragement during her recovery, saying the senior batter’s support helped her regain confidence when she doubted her return to international cricket.
Her innings, featuring 14 boundaries, anchored India’s second innings as the visitors declared on 341 for seven, setting England a daunting target of 457. India eventually secured a commanding 270-run victory, marking one of the most significant achievements in the history of Indian women’s cricket.
Bhatia’s century not only sealed her place in cricket history but also symbolised resilience, determination and the growing stature of women’s cricket, inspiring countless young players to dream of achieving greatness on the sport’s biggest stages.
