Visakhapatnam, Oct 10 (NationPress) India's three-wicket setback against South Africa in an exhilarating clash during the ICC Women's ODI World Cup has cast a spotlight on two critical areas of concern for Harmanpreet Kaur's squad. These challenges could jeopardize the hosts' ambition of securing their inaugural title.

Thursday's loss unveiled the weaknesses in India's top-order batting and their limited bowling resources, which may hinder their progress.

Though wicketkeeper-batter Richa Ghosh delivered a remarkable performance with a score of 94 off 77 balls, supported by Sneh Rana's explosive 33 off 24, helping India reach a competitive total of 251 all out, she expressed confidence in the top-order batters, asserting they will rebound in future matches. However, concerns about their performance run deeper and require urgent attention.

The vulnerabilities in the lower-order bowling were starkly highlighted as Nadine de Klerk struck a phenomenal 84 off 54 balls, smashing five sixes — the most by a lower-order batter — following a composed 70 from captain Laura Wolvaardt and a crucial 49 from Chloe Tryon, leading South Africa to their second consecutive victory in the World Cup after a dismal start.

India initially triumphed in their opening two games against co-hosts Sri Lanka and rivals Pakistan, thanks to pivotal contributions from their middle and lower-order batters, including Deepti Sharma, Sneh Rana, Amanjot Kaur, and Richa Ghosh, along with commendable performances from their spin bowlers.

Despite another top-order collapse, Richa, alongside Amanjot and Sneh, salvaged the innings by forming vital partnerships, enabling the team to post a competitive total after they found themselves at 102/6 against South Africa.

"Regarding the top order — they’re all exceptional players. One match doesn’t define their capabilities. In cricket, anything is possible; it’s our responsibility to give our best each time. Blaming the top order isn’t the solution," Richa stated during the post-match press conference.

While the lower-order batters performed admirably and the pacers secured early breakthroughs, the turning point came in a decisive over bowled by Kranti Gaud. De Klerk’s explosive hitting changed the game’s momentum significantly.

"We never lost hope during the match — we fought until the last ball and aimed to maximize our runs. However, Kranti’s over was pivotal — those two sixes and a four she allowed really shifted the tide. Otherwise, we were in control," Richa explained.

She refrained from criticizing the pace bowling unit, which was already short-staffed after the management's decision to drop Renuka Singh in favor of batting all-rounder Amanjot Kaur.

"We executed our plans to the best of our abilities. The pace bowlers adhered to their strategies too. Full credit to the opposition for their outstanding batting performance," Richa acknowledged.

India also missed a critical catch of Chloe Tryon, which could have intensified South Africa's woes at 142/6.

As India prepares to face defending champions Australia, England, and New Zealand in their next matches, they need to regroup and refocus after this disappointing defeat.

"We’ll conduct a thorough review — evaluating what worked, identifying areas for growth, and continually learning. We’ll hold meetings to discuss this. One loss won’t alter our mindset. We’ll systematically plan our practice sessions and maintain a positive outlook. The lessons from today’s match will guide us forward," Richa affirmed.

The top-order batting undeniably requires immediate attention. Although Smriti Mandhana has had an outstanding year, she has struggled in the World Cup, accumulating only 54 runs in three matches compared to over 900 runs in 14 innings prior.

While Pratika Rawal showed signs of regaining form with 37 runs, the swift exits of Harmanpreet Kaur, Jemimah Rodrigues, and Deepti Sharma left India in a precarious position.

Tactical adjustments in personnel might rectify the issues, and the management must act swiftly to salvage their campaign.