Fans were left stunned by the Indian team management’s decision to field Amanjot Kaur ahead of Richa Ghosh during the closing stages of the Women’s World Cup final against South Africa in Navi Mumbai on Sunday, November 2.
After skipper Harmanpreet Kaur was dismissed with just under 10 overs remaining, India were put in a strong position but needed to step up to post a daunting total. The situation seemed tailor-made for Richa Ghosh, known for her clean hitting and ability to finish the innings with flair. However, the management decided to send Amanjot Kaur instead – a move that did not go down well with fans and pundits online.
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India eventually posted an imposing target of 299 runs, but the decision to retain Ghosh raised a lot of eyebrows. The wicket-keeper batsman was in good form throughout the tournament and crushed a 92 against South Africa in the league stage – her omission at this crucial stage is all the more surprising.
Social media quickly lit up with criticism. One fan on X (formerly Twitter) wrote: “Amanjot Kaur to Richa Ghosh in World Cup final, just 10 overs to go – Gautam Gambhir level decision.” Another said: “Amol Muzumdar is a coward for not sending Richa Ghosh after Harmanpreet’s wicket. Extremely defensive cricket.”
Another user added: “INDs are 4 down with 10 overs to go and Richa Ghosh is still in the dugout? The management wants her to bat her tail but she is so much more than that.” Others urged faith in the young batsman, with one writing: “Despite her flaws, Richa Ghosh is an unfathomable bowler – trust her, if not now, then when?”
When Ghosh finally came in after Amanjot’s dismissal, she made a blistering 34 off 24 balls – a cameo that lifted India late in the innings but left many wondering what might have been had she come earlier.
As India defend their 299-run total, the ‘Gautam Gambhir-level’ challenge debate shows no sign of slowing down.
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Issued by:
Amar Panicker
Published on:
November 2, 2025
