- World Cup returns after 28 years in Visakhapatnam
- Grand preparations at the ACA-VDCA Stadium have been made to ensure a smooth event
- India stands third on the points table with four points, while South Africa is fifth with two points
The “City of Destiny” is in full festive mode as it welcomes the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025, returning to Andhra Pradesh after 28 long years. The Dr. Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy ACA-VDCA International Cricket Stadium at PM Palem is all set to host the much-anticipated clash between India and South Africa today at 3:00 PM IST. However, rain clouds threaten to delay the start.
Elaborate preparations have been made by the Andhra Cricket Association (ACA) and the Visakhapatnam District Cricket Association (VDCA) to ensure a grand spectacle. Groundsmen gave final touches to the pitch and outfield on Wednesday, while the entire stadium was placed under tight security. Dog squads and rope parties conducted checks across the premises, overseen by ACA officials. Commissioner of Police Shankabratha Bagchi and senior officers reviewed the arrangements, with traffic diversions and special parking zones established along NH-16 between Anandapuram and Anakapalli for smooth movement.
Team India remains in high spirits ahead of their clash in Visakhapatnam as the squad has been in commanding form, registering back-to-back wins, a 59-run (DLS method) victory over Sri Lanka, followed by an emphatic 88-run triumph against Pakistan.
In contrast, South Africa suffered a heavy defeat against England, being bowled out for just 69, but they staged an impressive comeback with a six-wicket win over New Zealand, driven by Tazmin Brits’ unbeaten century.
On the points table, India currently stands third with four points and a healthy Net Run Rate (NRR) of +1.515, while South Africa sits fifth with two points and an NRR of -1.402. A win today could propel India to the top of the standings, but a defeat would make their campaign more challenging, especially with a much-anticipated clash against Australia lined up on October 12.
