Navi Mumbai – Following a victorious T20I series against the West Indies, Indian wicketkeeper-batter Richa Ghosh emphasized the importance of maintaining an aggressive mindset for the upcoming ODI matches. Ghosh, who recently delivered a record-equalling knock, believes India should adopt a harder approach to build on their momentum.
In the third T20I, Ghosh smashed a blistering 54 runs off just 21 balls, reaching her fifty in a mere 18 deliveries. This performance placed her alongside New Zealand’s Sophie Devine and Australia’s Phoebe Litchfield in the elite club of players achieving the fastest fifties in women’s T20Is. Her efforts helped India post an impressive 217-run total and seal the T20I series 2-1.
“We need to continue this momentum into the ODIs and not ease up,” Ghosh said during the post-match media interaction. “It’s a new venue, and our focus will be on assessing the conditions and planning accordingly. But our approach will definitely be more aggressive.”
Aggression Rooted in Practice
Ghosh revealed that her attacking mindset stems from rigorous preparation. “The mindset is built in training sessions. When you practice something consistently, it feels natural to execute it during a match,” she shared. “I’ve always loved power-hitting. Watching my father play big shots inspired me. I’ve worked hard on my fitness and practice routines to enhance my hitting ability.”
The 21-year-old also credited her stints in international leagues, such as the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) and Women’s Premier League (WPL), for improving her game. “I’ve had insightful discussions with players like Sophie Devine and Deandra Dottin during these leagues. I’ve also learned a lot about hitting from Harry [Harmanpreet Kaur], who is one of the best hitters in the game,” Ghosh added.
Fresh Start After Australia Series Loss
Reflecting on India’s previous ODI series loss to Australia, Ghosh emphasized the team’s determination to start anew. “We wanted to put the past behind us and focus on giving our best. Everyone contributed, and it paid off,” she said.
West Indies Skipper Hayley Matthews Reflects
West Indies captain Hayley Matthews acknowledged India’s dominant performance and admitted her team struggled with execution. “We had solid plans, but India’s players adapted well and executed their strategies better. Kudos to them for their batting display,” Matthews said.
Matthews also praised Indian stand-in skipper Smriti Mandhana, who delivered consistent performances throughout the series with scores of 54, 62, and 77. “Smriti had a fantastic series, and her final innings stood out as her best,” Matthews remarked.
Electric Atmosphere at DY Patil Stadium
The final T20I witnessed an electric atmosphere at the DY Patil Stadium, with an official attendance exceeding 47,200 — surpassing the venue’s capacity of 45,000. Matthews expressed her admiration for the enthusiastic Indian crowd.
“It’s always amazing to play in India because of the sheer passion the fans have for the game,” Matthews said. “Even when they’re cheering for the opposition, the energy in the stadium is incredible. It’s one of the reasons I love playing here.”
India Aims to Continue Winning Streak
As India prepares for the ODI series, the team looks to carry forward the momentum and continue their aggressive style of play. With players like Richa Ghosh and Smriti Mandhana in top form, fans can expect more fireworks in the upcoming matches.
