In a thrilling encounter at the ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium in Visakhapatnam, India’s wicketkeeper-batter Richa Ghosh delivered a sensational performance, securing her place in the record books. She blazed her way to 94 runs off just 77 balls against South Africa in the ICC Women’s World Cup, marking the highest individual score ever achieved by a batter at No. 8 or lower in Women’s One Day International history.
Richa Ghosh celebrates her half century. (PTI Photo)
Ghosh’s impactful innings, which included 11 fours and four sixes, was crucial in lifting India from a challenging position of 102 for six to a respectable total of 251. Her phenomenal effort surpassed the previous record of 74, held by South Africa’s Chloe Tryon, who set her mark earlier this year against Sri Lanka.
Adding another layer of uniqueness to the match, it was the first time in Women’s ODI history that two No. 8 batters (or lower) from opposing teams scored half-centuries. South Africa’s Nadine de Klerk also played a match-winning knock, scoring 84 runs not out off 54 balls, further eclipsing Tryon’s previous record.
Despite Ghosh’s brilliant individual display, India ultimately faced a three-wicket defeat. This loss marked South Africa’s first victory over India after five consecutive losses and their third consecutive World Cup win against the Women in Blue.
Earlier in the game, India had a decent start with Pratika Rawal (37) and Smriti Mandhana (23) contributing 55 runs in 10.2 overs. However, a sudden collapse saw five wickets fall for just 19 runs, with India plummeting from 83 for one to 102 for six. Key batters like Harmanpreet Kaur, Jemimah Rodrigues, and Deepti Sharma struggled to make an impact.
Richa Ghosh then stepped up, spearheading the recovery effort alongside Amanjot Kaur (13) and later Sneh Rana (33). Her partnerships, a 51-run stand with Amanjot and an 88-run stand with Rana for the eighth wicket, were vital in bringing India back into the game. Ghosh reached her fifty in 53 balls and then accelerated, scoring 44 runs in her final 24 deliveries before being dismissed in the last over.
Although the match ended in disappointment for India, Richa Ghosh’s record-shattering performance was a highlight, showcasing her immense talent and fearless approach on the global stage. Her innings serves as a powerful reminder of her potential in international cricket.