India captain Harmanpreet Kaur expressed disappointment in her top-order batters following a three-wicket loss to South Africa in the Women’s World Cup. Despite a promising recovery led by wicketkeeper-batter Richa Ghosh, India could not defend their total of 251. Ghosh’s exceptional knock of 94 runs from 77 balls, including 11 fours and five sixes, came after India had slumped to 102 for six.
However, her valiant effort was overshadowed by South Africa’s powerful chase, led by Nadine de Klerk’s unbeaten 84 and Laura Wolvaardt’s 70. After the game, Harmanpreet admitted, “We didn’t take the responsibility as a top-order. We have to change things. We have to get the good totals. It is a long tournament. It was a tough game, but there were lots of learnings. We need to keep ourselves in the positive frame (of mind).”
Richa Ghosh’s Heroics Go In Vain
Despite India’s batting collapse, Harmanpreet Kaur praised the fighting spirit of her team and particularly commended Ghosh’s remarkable innings. “(It was a) tough game. Both teams played really well. Even though we collapsed while batting but we still managed to put 250 on the board,” she said.
The Indian skipper also acknowledged South Africa’s superior batting display, adding, “In the end, Chloe and de Klerk batted, they showed it was a very good pitch and they deserved to win with the way they batted.” Harmanpreet highlighted Ghosh’s consistency and power-hitting ability, saying, “Richa has been outstanding for us. Today, we were very pleased to see Richa’s hitting. She can get the big totals. Hope she continues.”
South Africa’s Fightback Led By De Klerk And Tryon
South Africa’s victory was anchored by Nadine de Klerk, who was named Player of the Match for her explosive 54-ball 84. Reflecting on the triumph, she said, “Look, I am lost for words. We have done lots of good things, and to finish off the game, take the game deep and get over the line is great.” De Klerk expressed her delight in handling pressure and relished performing on Indian soil, noting, “I do like being under pressure. I love the World Cups. No bigger stage than playing in India at their home.”
Skipper Laura Wolvaardt praised her teammate’s innings, saying, “It was incredible. I don’t think I have seen something like that all my career. That was a special innings.” Wolvaardt also commended de Klerk’s preparation and timing, adding, “She has been hitting like that in the nets against all our bowlers and is glad that it came off in the game. She timed the chase really well.”
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