In a thrilling IND vs SA clash at the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup 2025, South Africa pulled off a stunning three-wicket victory, powered by Nadine de Klerk’s unbeaten 84*. Despite Richa Ghosh’s sensational 94, India fell just short in a nail-biting finish that kept fans on edge till the very end.
Batting first in this high-voltage IND vs SA encounter, India started steadily with Smriti Mandhana and Pratika Rawal putting up 55 runs for the first wicket. However, a sudden collapse saw India crumble from 83/1 to 102/6. Just when things looked bleak, Richa Ghosh rose to the occasion with the best knock of her career — a fiery 77-ball 94 featuring 11 fours and 4 sixes. Her partnerships with Amanjot Kaur (51 runs) and Sneh Rana (88 runs) helped India post 251 all out in 49.5 overs.
South Africa’s bowlers kept things tight, with Chloe Tryon taking three wickets, while Marizanne Kapp, Nadine de Klerk, and Nonkululeko Mlaba picked two each.
In the chase, South Africa stumbled early, but captain Laura Wolvaardt’s composed 70 and Tryon’s quick 49 laid the foundation for De Klerk’s heroics. Her unbeaten 84 off just 54 balls — packed with five sixes and eight fours — sealed the deal for South Africa, who chased down the target in 48.5 overs to win the IND vs SA thriller.
For India, this loss serves as a wake-up call after two consecutive wins. The Harmanpreet Kaur-led side will need to regroup quickly and address their middle-order and bowling concerns ahead of their next big test against Australia.