India all-rounder Sneh Rana has reiterated her passion for the longest format, calling for more opportunities in women’s Test cricket ahead of India’s one-off clash against England at Lord’s Cricket Ground from July 10-13, 2026.
Speaking in a recent interview, the 32-year-old made her stance clear: “Test Matches have always been my favourite format,” highlighting both her personal preference and a broader desire to see the format grow in the women’s game.
Strong Test Record Underlines Her Value
Rana’s credentials in red-ball cricket make her one of India’s key assets. Since her debut against England in 2021, she has taken 24 wickets in five matches at an average of 22.75, including a five-wicket haul and a 10-wicket match performance.
With the bat, she has contributed 156 runs, including a half-century, reinforcing her role as a dependable all-round option.
Focus Shifts After T20 World Cup Omission
Despite being left out of India’s squad for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026, Rana remains focused on making an impact in the Test arena.
She addressed the setback with determination, stating that setbacks are part of the journey and emphasizing her belief in making strong comebacks. Her resilience has been a defining trait throughout her career.
Part of India’s Recent Success Story
Rana played a role in India’s historic triumph at the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup 2025, where the team secured its first senior ICC title under captain Harmanpreet Kaur.
Her contributions with both bat and ball during that campaign added to her reputation as a reliable performer in major tournaments.
A Voice for Women’s Test Cricket
Beyond individual goals, Rana has emerged as a strong advocate for expanding the women’s Test calendar. She expressed hope for more dedicated Test series, pointing out the limited opportunities currently available in the format.
Her comments reflect a growing sentiment among players that the longest format deserves greater visibility and structure in women’s cricket.
Leadership Role Within the Squad
As one of the senior figures in the team, Rana also emphasized the importance of supporting younger players, fostering an environment where they can express themselves freely and adapt quickly to international demands.
Eyes on Lord’s
With India set for a busy tour of England that includes a T20I series followed by the historic Test, Rana now has a clear target: delivering a strong performance at Lord’s, widely regarded as the “Home of Cricket.”
Her focus on redemption and her push for the growth of Test cricket underline both her personal ambition and her broader vision for the future of the women’s game.
