Richa Ghosh, who helped power India to World Cup win, on why pay parity is important

The Indian women’s cricket team beat South Africa to win their first-ever ICC Women’s ODI World Cup in Navi Mumbai on November 2.

Ghosh, who hit 12 sixes – the most in the tournament – said the victory was a dream realised.

“It was a dream to play for India… My best match was against South Africa. Now, the goal is to win the T20 World Cup,” she told media persons.

“Dedication, hard work and discipline. These are the three mantras behind success,” Richa said and cited Jhulan Goswami as her inspiration. “My parents contributed the most to my success… Jhulan Goswami is our inspiration.”

Ghosh also recalled meeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi after the win. “As a team we met him. It was a great experience. He invited us and his words motivated us. People will now see the women’s team as equals,” she added.

Speaking on the recent pay‑parity move and the launch of the Women’s Premier League (WPL), Ghosh praised the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). “BCCI and the coaches have done a lot. Pay parity and the beginning of WPL is a great achievement and it will encourage girls to join sports and cricket. Also WPL will provide a platform for talent to earn a place in the national team,” she said.

The cricketer called for improved facilities in her hometown, expressing her desire for more girls to join sports. “There is a need for a good stadium in Siliguri not only for cricket but other sports too,” said Ghosh.

The Siliguri Municipal Corporation and the Sports Council organised a reception at Baghajatin Park, where a red carpet was rolled out and local women cricketers formed a guard of honour for Richa with raised bats.

A formal honour from the Cricket Association of Bengal is slated for Saturday at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, where Ghosh will receive a gold‑plated bat and ball signed by Sourav Ganguly and Jhulan Goswami.