England’s batting brilliance, highlighted by centuries from Nat Sciver-Brunt and debutant Maia Bouchier, set the tone on day one of the Test against South Africa in Bloemfontein. Sciver-Brunt smashed a record-breaking 96-ball hundred, surpassing Bouchier’s 124-ball effort, as England posted a commanding 395 for 9 declared.
Opting to bat on a historically batter-friendly pitch, England capitalised on favourable conditions, with four of their partnerships exceeding fifty runs. The highlight was a 174-run stand between Bouchier and Sciver-Brunt, which showcased an aggressive approach, scoring nearly five runs an over. Despite a late fightback from South Africa, including Nonkululeko Mlaba’s career-best 4 for 90, England maintained control.
South Africa missed early opportunities, including a potential run-out of Bouchier and a dropped catch by Marizanne Kapp. Bouchier displayed patience after an aggressive start, reaching her maiden Test century with a boundary off Chloe Tryon. She eventually fell for 126, edging Mlaba to slip.
Sciver-Brunt, meanwhile, raced to her second Test century, blending powerful strokes with precise shot selection. Her knock ended with an unfortunate run-out after scoring 128. England’s lower order added useful runs, with skipper Heather Knight declaring late in the day.
South Africa’s openers Laura Wolvaardt and Anneke Bosch survived six testing overs to finish on 17 without loss, trailing by 378 runs. England’s spinners, Charlie Dean and Sophie Ecclestone, will be eager to exploit the turning surface as play resumes on day two under sunny conditions.