South Africa Women Edge Past India in a Thrilling 3-Wicket Win at Visakhapatnam
Visakhapatnam, October 9, 2025 – The ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 witnessed a nail-biting encounter as South Africa Women held their nerves to defeat India Women by 3 wickets in the 10th match of the tournament at the Dr. Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium, Visakhapatnam. It was a contest filled with twists, collapses, and moments of brilliance, keeping fans on the edge till the final over.
India Women’s Innings – A Promising Start Slips Away
Batting first, India Women posted 251 runs in 49.5 overs, a total that appeared competitive but slightly below par on a good batting surface.
The innings began positively with Smriti Mandhana and Pratika Rawal adding a steady 55-run opening partnership. Mandhana’s fluent 23 off 32 balls and Rawal’s composed 37 off 56 laid the platform before wickets began tumbling.
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Left-arm spinner Nonkululeko Mlaba turned the tide for South Africa with two key breakthroughs, removing both Mandhana and Harleen Deol. The middle order failed to build momentum as Harmanpreet Kaur (9) and Jemimah Rodrigues (0) fell cheaply, leaving India struggling at 100 for 5.
Richa Ghosh provided resistance with a blistering 94 off 77 deliveries, smashing 11 fours and a six. Her counter-attacking innings revived India’s hopes as she stitched valuable partnerships with Sneh Rana (33 off 24) and Amanjot Kaur (13 off 44). However, her dismissal in the penultimate over ended India’s fightback, with the team bowled out for 251.
For South Africa, Chloe Tryon (3/32) and Marizanne Kapp (2/45) were outstanding with the ball, while Mlaba’s economical spell of 2/46 kept the pressure on throughout.
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South Africa’s Chase – Grit and Nerve Under Pressure
Chasing 252, South Africa’s innings got off to a shaky start. They were 18 for 2 within the first six overs as Kranti Gaud struck twice, dismissing Tazmin Brits (0) and captain Laura Wolvaardt (70 off 111) early.
Wolvaardt, however, anchored the innings with her trademark calmness, combining solid defense and timely aggression. She built a crucial 63-run stand with Sune Luus (59) before both fell in quick succession, leaving South Africa in trouble at 142 for 6.
At this stage, India sensed victory, but the experienced Nadine de Klerk played a match-winning knock. Her unbeaten 84 off 54 balls, laced with 8 fours and 5 sixes, turned the game on its head. De Klerk’s calculated aggression, supported by Ayabonga Khaka’s 13 not out, saw South Africa home with 7 balls to spare, finishing at 252 for 7 in 48.5 overs.
Turning Points
- Richa Ghosh’s 94-run innings kept India in contention and prevented an early collapse.
- Chloe Tryon’s all-round show (49 runs and 3 wickets) played a pivotal role in South Africa’s dominance.
- Nadine de Klerk’s unbeaten 84 was the ultimate game-changer, snatching victory from India’s grasp.
Key Performers
| Player | Team | Performance |
|---|---|---|
| Richa Ghosh | India | 94 (77) |
| Nadine de Klerk | South Africa | 84* (54) & 2/52 |
| Chloe Tryon | South Africa | 49 (66) & 3/32 |
| Kranti Gaud | India | 2/59 |
Player of the Match
Nadine de Klerk was deservedly named Player of the Match for her heroic unbeaten 84 and crucial contribution with the ball. Her composure under pressure and ability to switch gears at the right time were decisive in South Africa’s victory.
Captain’s Reactions
Harmanpreet Kaur (India Captain):
“We had our moments in the game but couldn’t capitalize. Richa batted brilliantly, and the bowlers gave their best, but Nadine’s innings was outstanding. We will look to bounce back stronger in the next match.”
Laura Wolvaardt (South Africa Captain):
“It was a tough game. Credit to India for fighting hard, but Nadine was exceptional. Our bowlers did a great job early on, and we held our nerve under pressure.”
Match Summary
| Team | Score | Overs | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| India Women | 251 all out | 49.5 | South Africa Women won by 3 wickets |
| South Africa Women | 252/7 | 48.5 |
FAQs
1. Who won the India Women vs South Africa Women ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 match?
South Africa Women won the match by 3 wickets.
2. Who was the Player of the Match?
Nadine de Klerk was named Player of the Match for her unbeaten 84 runs and impactful bowling.
3. Where was the match played?
The match was played at the Dr. Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium, Visakhapatnam.
4. Who was the top scorer for India?
Richa Ghosh top-scored for India with 94 runs off 77 balls.
5. What is South Africa’s next fixture in the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025?
South Africa will face England Women in their next group-stage encounter.
Final Verdict:
The thrilling 3-wicket victory showcased South Africa’s depth and determination, with Nadine de Klerk’s heroics stealing the spotlight. India, despite flashes of brilliance, will rue missed chances and middle-order collapses. The win pushes South Africa further up the points table, strengthening their bid for a semi-final spot in the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025.