22-year-old Richa Ghosh from Siliguri has now become the pride of Bengal. She led India to victory against South Africa in the Women’s World Cup final, earning a standing ovation at Eden Gardens.
Mamata Banerjee, Sourav Ganguly, and Jhulan Goswami all came together to honor Richa.
Richa Receives Numerous Rewards and Jobs
The Cricket Association of Bengal awarded Richa Rs 3.4 million, or Rs 1 lakh for every run she scored. The West Bengal government also presented her with the Banga Bhushan Award, a gold chain, and the job of Deputy Superintendent of Police.
Richa’s parents, Sports Minister Arup Biswas, and actress-MP Mimi Chakraborty were also present.
Ganguly presented Mamata Di with a copy of the Freedom Trophy and an invitation to the November 14 Test match.
Ganguly-Jhulan praised
Sourav Ganguly said, “The World Cup triumph is a special, special win and only Richa can tell us what that feels like. Your career has just begun. Women’s cricket will grow massively in the next four to six years, and there will be more opportunities. I hope you make the most of them and one day, like Jhulan, we’ll stand here and say: ‘Richa — India captain’. You’re just 22… You’ve got time. All blessings. and heartiest congratulations.”
Jhulan Goswami said, “In 2013, we were struggling, so I suggested district trials. During the under-15 trials in Siliguri, I spotted Richa. I requested the officials to support her. She was so talented at that age, I’d never seen that before. I wanted her to be in the senior team, and the rest is history. Finally, the World Cup came as a surprise.”
Richa said, “It feels like a dream — the way I was received in Siliguri and now here. It’s like living a dream.”
She sets targets in practice. She also stays calm under pressure by watching films and staying away from home.
She scored 34 runs in 24 balls at number 7 in the final, including 3 fours and 2 sixes.
Ganguly said, “The role she plays batting lower down the order is very difficult. You get fewer balls but you have to score the most runs. People may remember Jemimah’s 127 not out or Harmanpreet’s 89 in the semifinals, but Richa’s strike rate of 130-plus made the difference. What she’s done so simply is equal in value to Smriti or Harman.”
