South Africa delivered one of the tournament’s most dramatic turnarounds as Nadine de Klerk’s sensational unbeaten 84 off 54 balls steered the Proteas to a three-wicket victory over India in the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup. Trailing by five wickets at 81-5, the Proteas appeared headed for defeat before De Klerk’s breathtaking counterattack flipped the script.

India had set a target of 252, thanks largely to Richa Ghosh’s scintillating 94 off 77, which rescued the hosts from a precarious 102-6. However, De Klerk’s onslaught—featuring five sixes—left the Indian attack bewildered. She sealed the win with a final six, wrapping up the chase with seven balls to spare.

Captain Laura Wolvaardt (70 off 111) and Chloe Tryon (49 off 66) had earlier laid the groundwork with vital partnerships, but it was De Klerk’s ferocious hitting that stole the show. “That innings was incredible,” Wolvaardt said post-match. “I don’t think I’ve seen something like that in my entire career.”

The win keeps South Africa in contention for a semi-final spot, while India—despite Ghosh’s heroics—suffered their first tournament loss. De Klerk’s match-winning display now places her firmly in the spotlight, with opposition teams sure to prioritize plans for her in upcoming fixtures.

For India, Ghosh’s dazzling knock had initially shifted momentum, but their inability to contain De Klerk’s late surge proved costly. The result underscores South Africa’s growing resilience, having already rebounded from a crushing loss to England earlier in the tournament.

“We knew we were ahead of them the whole time,” Wolvaardt reflected. “They had a big finish, but we thought if we could take it deep, maybe we could have something special.” For De Klerk, the victory was pure elation: “I’m lost for words,” she admitted. “It was good to finish the job.”

The Proteas’ comeback now ranks among the tournament’s most memorable moments, with De Klerk’s name etched in the highlight reels. As the World Cup intensifies, South Africa’s rising confidence could pose a threat to top contenders yet.

Scorecard: India 251 (49.5 overs) | South Africa 252-7 (48.5 overs)
Result: South Africa won by three wickets

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#India #South Africa #** Women's Cricket World Cup #Nadine de Klerk #Laura Wolvaardt **