Test matches definitely needed to grow Women’s Cricket: Marizanne Kapp

After hitting a century on the first day of the Test match against England, the experienced South African cricketer Marizanne Kapp has opined that more Test matches are needed for women's cricket to evolve. 

Arriving at the crease when the Proteas were reeling at 45/4, Kapp helped the team pull off a significant turnaround with her knock of 150 off 213 balls and post a score of 284 on the board. 

Having played just two red-ball games so far, the 32-year-old has featured in 126 ODIs and 84 T20Is. 

Kapp doesn't expect enough opportunities in the longest format but feels more Test matches must be scheduled if women's cricket is to widen its reach. 

"Honestly, at the age I am at now it probably wouldn't be the best decision but feel if we want to grow women's cricket, more Test matches are definitely needed," said Kapp.

She added that the players can learn more about their skill-sets and fitness, if they feature in a red-ball game, and will help in enhancing their performances. 

"It is out there where you can try things and learn so much about yourself, so I would definitely like to see women play more Test matches because it will be good for the game,"

The talented all-rounder thinks hitting 150 in the Tests is a major highlight of her career. However, she added that the only difference between the red and white-ball cricket is that the player must focus harder in Tests. 

"Usually I aim for 50s, especially in ODIs and T20s, but to come out today and score 150 is special for me and I think it's going to be a huge highlight in my career,”

"It is still cricket but you have to focus a bit longer because it is challenging. You have to take it ball by ball and session by session and that makes it a bit easier,"

It will be interesting to see the England team's fightback on Day 2 after the challenging score posted by the Proteas.