The sun shone all day at Taunton today for the third day of the Women's Test match between England and India.

Once again a good sized crowd turned up to enjoy the sunshine and the action on the field which centred around Mithali Raj who batted impressively all day against a varied England attack.

The diminutive Indian player brought up her double century just before the close of play, by which time the tourists had taken a substantial first-innings lead over their hosts with wickets still remaining.

As he watched the afternoon session Somerset Cricket Development Officer Andrew Moulding told me: "We have been very pleased indeed with the response that we have had to the match. We have been particularly pleased with the number of girls who have turned up each day to take part in the free coaching that has been provided for them.

"There is now a lot of interest at the younger age ranges, but these youngsters need an exit route into senior cricket, and they need clubs to join.

"This is an opportunity for clubs in the region to develop a ladies section. On September 1st a Women's 8-a –side tournament is being held at Kings College in Taunton, and we would love to hear from any club who would like to enter a side. Anybody who is interested should contact either Jackie Summers on 01364 652588 or myself on 01823 352266."

© SOMERSET