Cricket
Proteas quietly confident heading into India challenge at the World Cup─── MORGAN PIEK 07:48 Thu, 09 Oct 2025
The Proteas are quietly confident ahead of their third match at the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup when they take on India on Thursday in Visakhapatnam.
It promises to be another tough encounter for the South Africans, with India still unbeaten after solid wins against both Sri Lanka and Pakistan. However, it will be the hosts’ first outing against a non-subcontinent team.
South Africa are confident in their own right as well as Monday’s six-wicket win against New Zealand in Indore to bounce back after the humiliating ten-wicket drubbing at the hands of England in Guwahati on Friday.
Nadine de Klerk. Photo: Cricinfo
Rain has been around in recent days, and the pitches have spent a fair amount of time under covers – conditions that are expected to favour the spinners.
All-rounder Nadine de Klerk said handling India’s spin attack will be crucial, while their seamers up front could also pose an early threat.
“India have a quality bowling attack, especially their two new-ball bowlers, who have been very successful even in conditions that have suited the spinners.”
“They look to swing the ball early and often put teams on the back foot by picking up a few early wickets. We’re well prepared for whatever comes our way, but we do expect a spin-heavy challenge.
“It’s been that way every time we’ve played them, even in the recent tri-series. The key will be getting through that new-ball period, which has worked so well for them lately.
“I think spin is going to be key for both sides, and whichever team plays spin better will likely come out on top.”
Nadine de Klerk. Photo: Cricinfo
De Klerk said taking early wickets will be central to South Africa’s game plan, with the ball, while with the bat, it will be the exact opposite.
“It’s been a big focus for us over the past few months. The best way to put teams under pressure is by taking wickets.
“Whether we bat or bowl first, it’s about making an impact early – with the ball, you want to strike quickly and get teams on the back foot; with the bat, you want to avoid losing early wickets in the power play.
“India’s opening pair have been in great form, so it’s important for us to arrive switched on, hit our straps early, and try to put them under pressure as soon as possible.”
Play at the ACA-VDCA Stadium in Visakhapatnam is set to get underway at 11:30.
