Kranti Gaud, India's New Pace Sensation, Just Put Her Name on the Legendary Lord's Board

Young India pacer Kranti Gaud produced a spell for the ages as she became the first woman to have her name etched on the Lord's Honours Board , guiding India to a commanding position in the one-off Test against England.

The 22-year-old returned remarkable figures of 5/37 , helping India bowl out England for 170 and secure a substantial 115-run first-innings lead . By stumps on Day 2, India had stretched their advantage to 269 runs , reaching 154/1 in the second innings with Smriti Mandhana unbeaten on 69.

An emotional Gaud described the achievement as one of the proudest moments of her life.

"It's a completely different feeling for me. I am very proud to be the first woman to get my name on the Lord's Honours Board. It's a proud moment for my family," she said after the day's play.

Gaud revealed that she had dreamt of taking a five-wicket haul at the iconic venue ever since India arrived in London. Her wish became reality with the help of a spectacular catch by Shafali Verma , who dived to complete a brilliant one-handed effort after Sneh Rana initially got a hand to the ball.

The pacer admitted she had a strong feeling throughout the day that a five-wicket haul was coming her way and said the moment became even more special when the catch was confirmed after a replay review.

Gaud also singled out the dismissal of England captain Nat Sciver-Brunt as her favourite wicket. The breakthrough, which came after lunch when England were rebuilding, proved crucial in tightening India's grip on the contest.

Having previously taken 6/52 in an ODI against England, Gaud credited the seam-friendly English conditions and her focus on maintaining the right line and length for her success.

Now with a historic Test five-for beside her name, the young fast bowler believes this is only the beginning. "I want to do even better now, and I feel I can achieve even more," she said.

With Gaud leading the charge and Mandhana anchoring the batting effort, India stand firmly in control as they chase a memorable victory at the Home of Cricket.