- By Gurmeet Batra
- Sun, 09 Nov 2025 11:47 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
India's wicketkeeper-batter Richa Ghosh, the World Cup-winner, was feted at Eden Gardens, receiving the prestigious Banga Bhushan award, a gold chain, and an honorary Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) appointment from the West Bengal government.
The Cricket Association of Bengal, which organised the glittering one-hour ceremony at Eden Gardens, also rewarded her with Rs 34 lakh -- Rs 1 lakh for every run she scored in the World Cup final.
CAB president Sourav Ganguly lauded Richa's exceptional talent, wistfully remarking that he wishes to see her leading India soon.
“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 have time on your side. All blessings and heartiest congratulations,” Ganguly said at the ceremony.
Richa played a pivotal role in India's title victory. Batting at No. 7, she scored a vital 34 off 24 balls with three fours and two sixes in the final against South Africa, helping India post a challenging 298/7.
“The role she plays batting lower down the order is very difficult. You get fewer balls but 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 has done so simply is equal in value to Smriti or Harman," Ganguly said.
Legendary pacer Jhulan Goswami recalled how a young Richa was discovered during Bengal's 2013 district trials in Siliguri.
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"In 2013, we were struggling so I suggested for trials in districts. 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," Jhulan said.
"Finally, tor haath diye amader World Cup ta aslo — onek onek dhonnobad.” (Finally, through your hands, our World Cup has come — thank you so much)," she added.
(With PTI Inputs)