Nadine de Klerk Leads South Africa to Sensational World Cup Win Over India

South Africa’s Proteas Women pulled off one of the most dramatic comebacks of the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025, defeating India by three wickets in Visakhapatnam. The night belonged to Nadine de Klerk, whose fearless batting turned despair into delight for the South African camp.

A Heroic Rescue In Visakhapatnam

Chasing 252 for victory, the Proteas seemed destined for defeat at 142 for six with just 14 overs remaining. But de Klerk had other plans. The all-rounder smashed an unbeaten 84 off only 54 balls, hitting eight boundaries and five towering sixes that sent the South African dugout into celebration.

Her performance not only anchored a shaky chase but also marked one of the most explosive innings ever produced by a South African woman in World Cup history. The Proteas reached their target with seven balls to spare, sealing a statement win against one of the tournament’s favourites.

Wolvaardt’s Composure And Tryon’s Support

Before de Klerk’s late surge, captain Laura Wolvaardt had steadied the innings with a well-crafted 70 off 111 balls, showing her trademark calm under pressure. Chloe Tryon chipped in with a valuable 49 off 66 deliveries, providing much-needed resistance after early wickets fell.

The two combined for a 69-run stand that gave South Africa a lifeline, setting the stage for de Klerk’s remarkable counter-attack.

“She’s been striking the ball beautifully in practice, but to see her play like that under pressure was incredible,” said Wolvaardt after the game. “It’s one of the best knocks I’ve witnessed.”

India’s Fight And South Africa’s Grit

Earlier, India’s innings had been built around a superb 94 from wicketkeeper Richa Ghosh, whose power hitting revived the side after a top-order collapse. Her partnership with Sneh Rana, who made a brisk 33 off 24 balls, helped India post a competitive 251 all out.

South Africa’s bowlers had kept their composure throughout, with Chloe Tryon (3-32) and Nonkululeko Mlaba (2-46) inflicting key blows. Marizanne Kapp and Kranti Gaud chipped in with two wickets each, ensuring India never fully regained control.

Turning The Tables

The victory lifted the Proteas to fourth place on the World Cup standings, just behind India, keeping their semi-final hopes alive. Beyond the numbers, it was a statement of belief and resilience from a team often overshadowed by inconsistency on the world stage.

For de Klerk, it was a defining night one where she transformed from promising talent to national hero. And for South Africa, it was another reminder that, in cricket, no game is ever truly over until the final ball.

{Source:SABC Sports}

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