Yastika Bhatia Credits Smriti Mandhana for Inspiring Lord's Century After ACL Comeback

India wicketkeeper-batter Yastika Bhatia has credited teammate Smriti Mandhana for helping her overcome one of the toughest phases of her career after returning from a serious knee injury to score a memorable century in the one-off Women's Test against England at Lord's.

Bhatia's outstanding knock of 113 runs not only marked her maiden international century but also made her the first woman to score a Test century at Lord's, capping an inspiring comeback after months of rehabilitation following an ACL injury.

The left-hander revealed that Mandhana's personal experience with a similar injury played a vital role in rebuilding her confidence during recovery.

Key Highlights

• Yastika Bhatia scored her maiden international century against England at Lord's.
• She became the first woman to register a Test century at Lord's.
• Bhatia credited Smriti Mandhana's guidance during her ACL rehabilitation.
• The wicketkeeper returned to international cricket after recovering from knee surgery.
• India set England a challenging target after declaring their second innings.

Yastika Bhatia's Historic Century at Lord's

Yastika Bhatia played one of the finest innings of her career, scoring 113 off 158 deliveries in India's second innings.

Her century helped India declare at 343/6, setting England a formidable target in the one-off Test match.

The milestone also secured her place in the Lord's honours board, making her the first woman to score a Test hundred at the iconic venue.

Smriti Mandhana's Advice Helped During Recovery

After the match, Bhatia revealed that Smriti Mandhana played a crucial role in helping her remain positive during rehabilitation.

Mandhana, who herself recovered from an ACL injury earlier in her career, encouraged Bhatia to view the setback as an opportunity for growth.

According to Bhatia, Mandhana told her that the rehabilitation process would strengthen both her mindset and her overall game, advice that stayed with her throughout recovery.

Comeback After Serious ACL Injury

Bhatia suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) during a training camp last year, requiring surgery and an extended rehabilitation period.

The injury forced her to miss several major tournaments before making her international return earlier this year.

Her century at Lord's represents a remarkable turnaround after months of intensive recovery and rehabilitation.

Family Support and Love for Cricket

Reflecting on her journey, Bhatia acknowledged the unwavering support of her family throughout the recovery process.

She also described returning behind the stumps after surgery as one of the most emotional moments of her rehabilitation, saying it helped her reconnect with the game she loves.

The wicketkeeper emphasised that belief, patience, and passion for cricket were key factors in helping her overcome one of the most difficult periods of her sporting career.

India in Strong Position

Bhatia's century, along with valuable contributions from the Indian batting unit, placed England under significant pressure.

India declared its second innings after building a commanding lead, leaving England with a challenging chase in the fourth innings.

The visitors also made early breakthroughs with the ball, strengthening their position heading into the remainder of the Test.

Why This Century Matters

Beyond the statistical milestone, Bhatia's innings represents one of the most inspiring comeback stories in recent Indian women's cricket.

Returning from a career-threatening injury to score a historic century at one of cricket's most iconic venues highlights both her resilience and determination.

Her achievement also underlines the importance of mentorship within the Indian team, with Smriti Mandhana's encouragement playing a significant role in her successful return.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Why is Yastika Bhatia in the news?

Yastika Bhatia scored her maiden international century against England and became the first woman to register a Test hundred at Lord's.

Q2. What advice did Smriti Mandhana give Yastika Bhatia?

Mandhana encouraged Bhatia to view her ACL injury as a turning point that would strengthen both her mindset and her cricket.

Q3. What injury did Yastika Bhatia suffer?

She sustained an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury, which required surgery and several months of rehabilitation.

Q4. How many runs did Yastika Bhatia score at Lord's?

She scored 113 runs in India's second innings.

Q5. Why is Yastika Bhatia's century historic?

She became the first woman to score a Test century at Lord's.