Team India’s unbeaten run in the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 came to a halt as South Africa stunned the hosts with a thrilling 3-wicket win in Visakhapatnam. After the defeat, captain Harmanpreet Kaur did not hold back her emotions, calling out her top-order batters for “not taking responsibility.”
“It was a tough match. We started poorly but managed to post 250 thanks to Richa’s brilliance. Our top order needs to step up — we can’t rely on the lower order every time,” Harmanpreet said after the loss.
Batting first after losing the toss, India’s top order once again struggled. Smriti Mandhana (23), Pratika Rawal (37), and Harleen Deol (13) all fell cheaply, leaving the side reeling at 102 for 6. It was wicketkeeper-batter Richa Ghosh who revived the innings with a scintillating 94 off 77 balls, smashing 11 fours and 4 sixes.
Her aggressive counterattack, along with Sneh Rana’s 33, guided India to a competitive 251 in 49.5 overs. Despite the fightback, it wasn’t enough on a surface that eased out under lights.
Chasing 252, South Africa found themselves in deep trouble at 81 for 5, but Nadine de Klerk scripted a remarkable turnaround. Batting at number eight, she smashed 84 not out off 54 balls, hitting 8 fours and 5 sixes. Partnered by Chloe Tryon (49), de Klerk led her team to victory with seven balls to spare.
“I’ve never seen a better lower-order partnership,” South Africa captain Laura Wolvaardt said post-match. “Nadine was sensational — she completely changed the momentum.”
With this defeat, India slipped to third place in the standings, behind Australia and England. The next fixture against Australia Women on October 12 now becomes crucial for Harmanpreet’s side, as they aim to regain momentum in the tournament.
