Kranti Goud (Getty Images)
Indian fast bowler Kranti Goud said earning a place on Lord’s’ famous roll of honor has been her personal goal since the start of the one-off women’s Test, after her match-winning performance led India to a historic 270-run victory over England.Goud was the standout performer with the ball, taking 5/37 in England’s first innings to give India a crucial 115-run lead. She followed it up with figures of 2/54 in the second innings as England were bowled out for 186 while chasing an imposing target of 457. Her seven-wicket haul earned her the Player of the Match award.
Reflecting on this achievement, Judd admitted that the feat seemed unimaginable growing up but became a clear goal once testing began.“When I was growing up, I never imagined something like this would happen. But from the day this Test match started, I told myself that I want to put my name on the honor roll,” she said during the post-match presentation.The young player attributed her success to adherence to the basics and trust in the plans set by the technical staff.“My technique is very simple. I just focus on my line and length. Whatever the coaches tell me, I try to follow that by hitting the same line and length consistently.
That’s what I was thinking with every ball.”Her five-wicket haul ensured she became one of the few cricketers to have their name inscribed on the famous Lord’s Roll of Honour, a moment she said belonged to her family and teachers as much as it did to her.“I feel very proud, and so does my family. I want to thank everyone – the coaches, the seniors and everyone who has supported me along this journey.”Gaud also revealed that the man-of-the-match award and match stem will take pride of place in the special collection she has built at home.“I’ve created a special little museum in my house, and this award will go there. I’ll keep the trunk there forever in the center.”India sealed the famous win on the fourth morning as Sneh Rana and Deepti Sharma cleaned up England’s lower order after the hosts resumed with a score of 130/6. The comprehensive win not only marked India’s women’s first Test win at Lord’s but also extended the team’s unbeaten record in Test cricket on English soil.