It seems there might be a slight mix-up with the date in your query. Mithali Raj’s 214 runs was indeed scored against England at Taunton in 2002, but it was in the Women’s Test match that took place from August 16 to 19, 2002.
This innings was a landmark moment for Indian women’s cricket, as Mithali Raj became the first Indian woman to score a double century in a Test match, and one of the few women cricketers in the world to do so at the time.
Mithali Raj scored an impressive 214 runs off 407 balls in India’s first innings.
Her 214 runs is still considered one of the finest individual performances by a woman cricketer in Test cricket.
Strike Rate: While her strike rate might seem low compared to modern-day cricket, her patience and ability to bat for long hours was key to the team’s success.
Key Contributions: Mithali’s innings was a blend of solid technique, concentration, and tactical awareness, providing India with the platform they needed to put up a formidable total against England.
Mithali Raj’s 214 runs was a defining moment not just in her career but in the history of women’s cricket.
At the time, it was the highest score by an Indian woman in Test cricket and cemented her reputation as one of the game’s greats.
Her innings lasted for more than a day’s play and provided the backbone to India’s total of 467 runs in their first innings.
India set a massive target, accumulating 467 runs in their first innings, with Mithali Raj leading the charge with her 214 runs.
Anju Jain (52 runs) and Sushma Verma (44 runs) were the other notable contributors.
England’s reply was strong but not enough to chase down India’s huge total. They scored 299 runs in their first innings.
In their second innings, England could only muster 212 runs, and India eventually won the match by 6 runs in a thrilling encounter.
In addition to her 214-run innings, Mithali Raj has one of the best batting averages in women’s Test cricket history. As of the latest available stats, her batting average stands at 51.00 in Test matches, which places her among the elite players in the game.
Mithali Raj’s Test Batting Average: 51.00 from 10 Test matches.
This average speaks volumes about her consistency and longevity as one of the top batters in women’s cricket.
Trailblazer: Mithali Raj is often referred to as one of the pioneers of women’s cricket in India. Her achievements, especially in longer formats like Tests, have inspired many young cricketers in India and around the world.
Leadership: As the captain of the Indian women’s cricket team for many years, Mithali has been instrumental in guiding the team to several milestones, including the 2017 Women’s World Cup final.
Longevity and Consistency: Mithali’s remarkable ability to perform consistently over the years has made her one of the most respected players in the history of the game.
Historic Achievement: First Indian woman to score a double century in a Test match.
Mithali Raj’s 214 runs in 2002 at Taunton remains one of the most iconic innings in women’s cricket history. It was not just a personal achievement for Mithali, but it also highlighted the growing strength and presence of women’s cricket on the global stage. Her consistency, leadership, and resilience have made her an inspiration for generations of cricketers.
