India, Nov. 3 -- Richa Ghosh's 24-ball 34 was the difference between India posting a total of 298 to what otherwise could have turned out less than ideal in the World Cup final against South Africa, which India won by 52 runs in the end. She was the one to find timely boundaries and ensure there were no late hiccups in the famous run-chase of 339 against Australia in the semi-finals. Without her belligerent 94 in the league game loss to South Africa, India could have been rolled over, their campaign sent off the tracks.

The big-hitter from Siliguri may not have scored the volume of runs as the top order, but Richa proved to be someone who would always top the dressing room medal chart. Coming down the order and being challenged to immedi...