De Klerk Upstages Ghosh as South Africa Win Thriller
South Africa edged past India in a pulsating India vs South Africa Women’s ODI 2025 thriller, as Nadine de Klerk’s unbeaten 84 (off 54 balls) eclipsed Richa Ghosh’s 94. The Proteas chased down 252 with three wickets and seven balls to spare.
South Africa women win by 3 wickets against India! What a thrilling chase and solid team effort! 🙌🔥
— wicketbuzz (@wicketbuzz) October 9, 2025
📸 Getty #SAWvsINDW #WomensWorldCup2025 #TeamSA #Cricket2025 #MatchWinner #Thriller #CricketVibes #WomenInCricket #Getty #SAW #INDW pic.twitter.com/x4mHVvGzed
India’s Recovery Fueled by Ghosh After Top-Order Collapse
India set 251 after a challenging start. Their innings began well with 55 in the powerplay, but then Mlaba and Tryon triggered a collapse reducing them to 102 for 6. At that point, Ghosh and Sneh Rana stitched together a crucial partnership of 88, restoring momentum. Ghosh struck 11 fours and four sixes during her knock. India’s acceleration in the last 10 overs (98 runs) proved vital to post a defendable target.
South Africa’s Spin Attack Threatens Early
When South Africa chased, India struck early. Kapp and Mlaba combined to topple key batters. Tryon also claimed three wickets, putting India under pressure. India had control in patches, but Wolvaardt (70) kept the Proteas inning in check.
De Klerk’s Blitz Seals the Match
Facing 41 runs off 25 balls, de Klerk went into overdrive. She hammered boundaries and sixes to take South Africa across the line. Her 84* included back-to-back sixes, four over mid-on, and crucial singles to retain strike. She became the anchor as India’s pressure subsided. Her shot selection and calm under fire outshone even Ghosh’s valiant knock.
De Klerk hits a brilliant 84* & Laura Wolvaardt adds 70 vs India! Solid partnership from SA 🇿🇦🔥
— wicketbuzz (@wicketbuzz) October 9, 2025
📸 Getty #DeKlerk #LauraWolvaardt #INDvSA #WomensWorldCup2025 #Cricket2025 #WomensCricket #SAWvsINDW #Getty #CricketFever #BattingMasterclass pic.twitter.com/LHHdOYg1rp
Turning Points & Tactical Notes
- South Africa’s chase of 252 ranks among the highest successful chases in Women’s World Cup history.
- India’s spin attack had moments of control, but they couldn’t restrict runs at the death.
- De Klerk capitalized on India’s dropped chances and loose balls in final overs.
- Ghosh’s resilience remains a highlight—her 94 rescued India once again.
