Nadine de Klerk unleashed a stunning display of power hitting, smashing an unbeaten 84 runs off just 54 balls to lead South Africa to a dramatic three-wicket victory over India in their Women’s World Cup encounter in Visakhapatnam. This thrilling match on Thursday delivered the tournament’s first genuine nail-biter.
The game was a roller-coaster of emotions. While the South African camp erupted in jubilation, the Indian players were left visibly heartbroken. Despite a spirited fight, it was de Klerk’s exceptional performance that ultimately snatched victory from India’s grasp.
South Africa’s Nadine de Klerk celebrates after hitting a six to win the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup match against India. (AP Photo/Aijaz Rahi)
Chasing a target of 252, South Africa’s innings saw vital contributions from skipper Laura Wolvaardt, who scored 70, and Chloe Tryon’s 49. However, it was de Klerk’s late blitz, adorned with five sixes and eight fours, that proved decisive, guiding her team to 252 for 7 in 48.5 overs.
The chase started with a shock for South Africa as Kranti Gaud dismissed the in-form Tazmin Brits for a duck with a brilliant delivery. Sune Luus also departed early, leaving Wolvaardt to anchor the innings as wickets fell around her. At a precarious 81 for 5, South Africa seemed to be in deep trouble. It was then that Chloe Tryon joined her captain, and together they meticulously rebuilt the innings, easing the pressure with efficient strike rotation and crucial partnerships.
Just when India thought they had regained control with Gaud dismissing Wolvaardt, de Klerk stepped up. She accelerated magnificently, hitting boundaries as the required run rate soared past eight. Her fearless hitting ensured South Africa reached their target with seven balls to spare, sealing a memorable win.
Nadine de Klerk, center, celebrates with teammates after hitting a six to win the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup match against India. (AP Photo/Aijaz Rahi)
“I am lost for words. To finish off the game gives us a lot of confidence,” expressed Nadine de Klerk, who was deservedly named Player of the Match. “I thrive under pressure, and we had to be at our absolute best to overcome India on their home turf. We genuinely needed a victory like this to demonstrate our capabilities.”
Earlier in the match, India’s innings was rescued by a phenomenal knock from Richa Ghosh, who scored 94 runs off just 77 balls. India had found themselves in a difficult position, collapsing from 55 for 0 to 102 for 6 within 26 overs. However, Ghosh’s whirlwind innings, featuring 11 fours and four sixes, almost single-handedly revived their hopes and propelled them to a competitive total of 251 all out in 49.5 overs.
Brief Scores:
India: 251 all out in 49.5 overs (Pratika Rawal 37, Richa Ghosh 94, Sneh Rana 33; Chloe Tryon 3/32)
South Africa: 252/7 in 48.5 overs (Laura Wolvaardt 70, Chloe Tryon 49, Nadine de Klerk 84*; Sneh Rana 2/47)