Richa Ghosh Misses Maiden World Cup Ton but Breaks 52-Year Massive Record

Richa Ghosh played the innings of her life against South Africa in the ongoing Women’s ODI World Cup, falling just short of a century but etching her name in history. The young wicketkeeper smashed 94 off 77 balls after walking in at number eight, rescuing India from 102 for 6 and helping them post 251.

Her knock wasn’t just brave, it was record-breaking. Richa now holds the record for the highest score by a number eight batter in ODI World Cup history, across both men’s and women’s cricket. She went past Australian Nathan Coulter-Nile’s 92 against West Indies in the 2019 Men’s World Cup.

The last time an Indian woman dominated from that position was in 2022, when Pooja Vastrakar scored 67 against Pakistan. Interestingly, all three top scores by number eight batters in Women’s World Cups now belong to Indians, Richa, Pooja, and Amanjot Kaur.

For perspective, this record stands tall in 52 years of World Cup cricket, dating back to 1973 when the first women’s edition was played. Richa’s innings will be remembered not just for the runs but for the way she fought, calm under pressure, smart with her shot selection, and finishing with the composure that reminded fans of MS Dhoni.