New Delhi: India’s top order failed to shoulder the responsibility as South Africa pulled off a thrilling three-wicket win in their Women’s World Cup encounter, leaving captain Harmanpreet Kaur urging her batters to step up in future matches.
India were in trouble at 102 for six, but Richa Ghosh rose to the occasion with a brilliant 77-ball 94, including 11 fours and five sixes, rescuing her team to 251 all out. Despite her valiant effort, South African batters Nadine de Klerk (84 off 54 balls)* and Laura Wolvaardt (70) led a determined chase that sealed India’s first defeat of the tournament.
Harmanpreet did not shy away from criticism, saying, “We didn’t take responsibility as a top order. We need to change things, set good totals, and learn from this. It’s a long tournament, and we must stay positive.” She praised Ghosh’s knock, calling it “outstanding” and a reminder of her ability to set big totals.
South Africa’s captain de Klerk, awarded Player of the Match, hailed the victory as a historic achievement. “There’s no greater feeling than beating India at home. We had to take the game deep, and our batting depth made it possible,” she said. Wolvaardt added, “It was incredible one of the most special innings I’ve seen, and it showed the resilience of our side.”
South Africa, recovering from early setbacks, capitalized on their lower-order partnerships, including a 69-run stand for the seventh wicket between Tryon and de Klerk, to chase down the target on a challenging pitch.
The win highlights South Africa’s depth and composure under pressure, while India’s top order must regroup if they hope to remain competitive in the tournament.
