THE historic first women’s Test at Lord’s ended 95 minutes into the final day today after England lost by 270 runs to India despite stubborn resistance by Sophie Ecclestone.

Set an improbable victory target of 457, after a superb century by Yastika Bhatia to become the first female batter on the honours board at the home of cricket, Charlotte Edwards watched England collapse to 59 for five on Sunday night.

Low scores for retiring duo Tammy Beaumont and Heather Knight raised the possibility of a dispiriting day three defeat at the end of a memorable summer, but Amy Jones joined forces with Mady Villiers (26) and the England wicket-keeper made it to the close on 52 not out.

When Jones was dismissed only 18 balls into the fourth and final day after England resumed on 130 for six, the end was nigh.

But Ecclestone battled away, enjoyed some luck after two drops and made a maiden Test half-century before she was last batter out to Sneh Rana.

It sparked jubilant celebrations from India in front of nation great Sachin Tendulker, who had provided a pep-talk for the team this morning.

Rana’s four for 42 enabled India to dismiss England for 186 by lunchtime.