In a dramatic turn of events at the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025, South Africa has defeated India by three wickets, largely thanks to an astonishing unbeaten 84 from Nadine de Klerk. The all-rounder’s blistering knock, which included five sixes and came off just 54 balls, saw South Africa successfully chase down India’s score of 251 with seven balls remaining. This victory marks South Africa’s second win on the trot, propelling them into the top four, while India experiences its first loss in the tournament.
The match, which commenced an hour later due to a wet outfield, witnessed a remarkable recovery from the South African team. At one stage, they were struggling at 142/6, but Chloe Tryon (49) and Nadine de Klerk forged a game-changing partnership. De Klerk’s exceptional display of power-hitting not only guided her team to victory but also established a new ODI record for the highest score by a batter at No. 8.
India had managed to set a challenging total, primarily due to a spectacular 94 from wicketkeeper Richa Ghosh. Ghosh played a lone hand for much of the innings, building valuable partnerships with the lower order, including a significant 88-run stand with Sneh Rana (33). Her aggressive batting in the final ten overs significantly boosted India’s score to 251 all out in the penultimate over of their innings.
South Africa’s pursuit of the target was hampered by early dismissals. Tazmin Brits fell for a duck, and the Proteas found themselves in deep trouble at 81/5. Captain Laura Wolvaardt’s solid 70 offered stability, and her partnership with Chloe Tryon brought them closer. However, it was the electrifying late surge by de Klerk that ultimately clinched the victory, demonstrating incredible composure under pressure and a remarkable ability to find boundaries when needed most.