India faced its first defeat women’s world cup 2025Lost to South Africa by three wickets in Visakhapatnam on Thursday.
After the match, India captain Harmanpreet Kaur expressed disappointment over the performance of her top order and admitted that the batsmen failed to take responsibility in the crucial group-stage clash.
India collapsed once again before Richa Ghosh saved the innings.
India’s innings had a bad start after being reduced to 102 runs for six wickets, but wicketkeeper-batsman Richa Ghosh mounted a brilliant counterattack. The 21-year-old scored 94 runs off just 77 balls with the help of 11 fours and 5 sixes as India were all out for a competitive 251 runs.
However, her heroics went in vain, as South Africa cruised to an unbeaten 84 off 54 balls from Nadine de Klerk and an unbeaten 70 from captain Laura Wolvaardt. Chased the target brilliantly to achieve a thrilling winThe Proteas’ concerted run chase caught India off guard early in their campaign.
Harmanpreet Kaur blames India’s top order for lack of responsibility
Speaking after the match, Harmanpreet had nothing to say about India’s batting struggles, especially in the top order.
“We didn’t take responsibility as the top order. We have to change things. We have to get good scores.” Harmanpreet said. “It’s a long tournament. It was a tough game, but a lot to learn. We need to keep ourselves in a positive mindset.”
The captain admitted that despite the batting collapse, India were able to post competitive scores due to the resilience of the lower order.
“Even though we collapsed while batting, we still managed to put 250 runs on the board. In the end, Clough and de Klerk batted really well; they showed that it was a very good pitch and they deserved to win.” He added.
Despite being disappointed with the overall result, Harmanpreet praised Richa Ghosh, whose innings almost turned the game in India’s favour.
“Richa has been excellent for us. We were very happy to see her hitting today. She can get big scores, and we hope she continues,” The Indian captain said.
Ghosh’s innings was a reminder of his growing maturity and ability to perform under pressure – an encouraging sign for India in the long tournament ahead.
“There’s no bigger stage than beating India at home”: Nadine de Klerk
For South Africa, Nadine de Klerk was the star of the night, leading her team to a famous victory and earning the Player of the Match award.
“Look, I’m at a loss for words. We did a lot of good things and it’s great to finish the game, take the game deep and get across the line.” De Klerk said.
“I love being under pressure. I love the World Cup. There is no bigger stage than playing India at home. We had to give our best. Like I said, it’s great to cross the line. We are able to beat the best teams in the world.”
She credited her teammates, including Chloe Tryon and Laura Wolvaardt, for maintaining their composure during the chase.
“We just had to take it deep. We are a very good team in the backend. Even if we need 7 or 8 (runs per over), we will be able to do that. Chloe took the pressure off me, Laura was fantastic too.” He added.
This article was first published here WomenCricket.comA Cricket Times Company.