Australia’s Annabel Sutherland made history on Friday as she smashed the fastest double century in women’s Test cricket during the second day of the one-off match against South Africa. The 22-year-old achieved this remarkable feat in just 248 balls, surpassing the previous record held by Karen Rolton, who scored a double century in 306 balls in 2001 against England in Leeds.
Annabel Sutherland’s exceptional innings played a pivotal role in Australia posting a massive total of 575 for 9 declared in their first innings at the WACA, marking the highest total in women’s Test cricket. Her innings were characterized by dominance, aggression, and a display of batting prowess that left an indelible mark on the cricketing world.
Batting at No. 6, Annabel Sutherland initially took her time, scoring only 7 runs off her first 35 balls. However, she quickly shifted gears and went on to toy with the South African bowlers, striking 27 fours and two sixes in her imperious knock. The innings showcased her ability to accelerate and take control of the game, making her a formidable force at the crease.
Sutherland’s double century places her in elite company, as only three women in Test cricket history – Pakistan’s Kiran Baluch (242 in 2004), India’s Mithali Raj (214 in 2002), and Australia’s Ellyse Perry – have scored higher. Notably, she fell just three runs short of Perry’s Australian highest individual record of 213 not out, set in 2017.
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The young Australian cricketer also etched her name in the record books as the youngest Australian woman and the second youngest overall to score a double century in Test cricket. This achievement is a testament to her precocious talent and bodes well for the future of Australian women’s cricket.
Sutherland’s innings were a masterclass in shot-making, as she effortlessly combined traditional strokes with powerful hitting. Her ability to adapt and accelerate when needed demonstrated maturity beyond her years. The innings will undoubtedly go down as one of the most memorable performances in women’s Test cricket.
In reaching her century, Sutherland took just 149 balls, falling just one short of her own record for the fastest Test century by a woman. This quickfire century showcased her ability to dictate the tempo of the game and put pressure on the opposition. The aggressive intent and precise shot selection during this phase of her innings were exemplary.
Before this historic match, Annabel Sutherland had accumulated 213 runs from four Test matches since making her debut in 2021. Her consistent performances have solidified her place in the Australian team, and the double century is likely to elevate her status in the world of women’s cricket.
Australia’s decision to declare at 575 for 9 reflected the team’s confidence in their formidable total and faith in their bowling attack. As South Africa faced an uphill task in their second innings, trailing by 432 runs, Sutherland’s impact on the match extended beyond her record-breaking innings.
In addition to rewriting the record books, Sutherland’s innings showcased the evolving landscape of women’s cricket, where players are continually pushing boundaries and achieving feats previously considered unattainable. The innings will serve as inspiration for aspiring young cricketers and contribute to the growing popularity and recognition of women’s Test cricket.
As the match progresses, Annabel Sutherland’s contributions will be remembered not only for the records she shattered but also for the statement she made about the evolving standards of women’s cricket. Her innings epitomize the spirit of the game – one of skill, determination, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. In the years to come, Annabel Sutherland’s double century will undoubtedly stand as a landmark moment in the rich history of women’s Test cricket.
Australia’s Annabel Sutherland Scripts History with Fastest Women’s Test Double Century Against South Africa | Video Watch Now