KEY POINTS
- Nadine de Klerk’s unbeaten 84 rescues South Africa from 81/5 to a match-winning total.
- India’s Richa Ghosh top-scores with 94, but lack of lower-order support.
VISAKHAPATNAM, India: South Africa Women clinched a thrilling three-wicket victory over India Women with seven balls remaining in the 10th match of the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 on Thursday, chasing down a target of 252 in Visakhapatnam.
South Africa’s dramatic victory was powered by a stunning unbeaten 84 off 54 balls from Nadine de Klerk, who took control of the chase after her team was reeling at 81 for 5.
Her counter-attacking knock, laced with 8 fours and 5 sixes, turned the game on its head, helping the Proteas secure their second win of the tournament.
Earlier, India posted 251 in 49.5 overs, thanks largely to Richa Ghosh’s explosive 94 off 77 balls, supported by Sneh Rana’s quick 33.
India had collapsed to 102/6 before Ghosh anchored the recovery, but the lack of support at the other end meant they fell just short of batting out the full 50 overs.
In reply, South Africa lost early wickets, with Kranti Gaud striking twice to remove both openers, including captain Laura Wolvaardt for a steady 70.
But De Klerk’s composed aggression turned the tide, even as India’s bowlers applied pressure deep into the innings.
Among Indian bowlers, Sneh Rana and Kranti Gaud took two wickets each, but the team’s fielding and death-over execution left room for improvement.
With this win, South Africa gained valuable points in the group stage, keeping their semifinal hopes alive, while India will be left ruing a lost opportunity after being in a dominant position.
Final Scores:
India Women: 251 all out (49.5 overs)
South Africa Women: 252/7 (48.5 overs)
Player of the Match:
Nadine de Klerk: 84* (54), 8 fours, 5 sixes
