Kolkata: World Cup-winning wicketkeeper-batter Richa Ghosh was felicitated in a grand ceremony at Eden Gardens on Saturday, where she received multiple honours from the West Bengal government and the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) for her stellar contribution to India’s World Cup triumph.
The 22-year-old from Siliguri was conferred the prestigious Banga Bhushan award, appointed as a Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP), and presented with a gold chain by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. The CAB, which hosted the glittering one-hour event, also rewarded her with ₹34 lakh — ₹1 lakh for every run she scored in the World Cup final.
Richa became the first World Cup-winning cricketer from Bengal, a feat that eluded even legendary former India captain Sourav Ganguly, who was present at the event as CAB President.
A Historic Knock on the Biggest Stage
In the World Cup final against South Africa, Richa played a decisive innings, scoring 34 runs off 24 balls, including three fours and two sixes. Her late cameo helped India reach a formidable total of 298/7, before the bowlers bowled out South Africa for 246, sealing a memorable win.
Over the course of the tournament, Richa amassed 235 runs in eight innings at an impressive average of 39.16 and a strike rate of 133.52 — the highest among Indian batters. She also equalled Deandra Dottin’s record of hitting 12 sixes in a single Women’s World Cup, cementing her reputation as one of the most explosive finishers in women’s cricket.
“Bengal’s Pride”: Sourav Ganguly Lauds Richa’s Achievement
Lauding her performance, Sourav Ganguly called Richa “Bengal’s pride” and praised her calm composure and match-winning mindset.
“Richa has made the state proud. I hope she continues her good work and one day captains the Indian women’s team,” said Ganguly.
Reflecting on her success, Richa credited her disciplined approach in the nets.
“I enjoy pressure. When I bat at practice, I time myself and try to score as many runs as possible in that period,” she said, showcasing the mental toughness that defines her batting.
Honours and Celebrations at Eden Gardens
During the felicitation, the CAB presented Richa with a golden bat and ball as symbols of her achievement. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee personally handed over the Banga Bhushan medal, the DSP appointment letter, and the gold chain amid loud cheers from fans and dignitaries.
The Banga Bhushan and Banga Bibhushan are the highest civilian awards instituted by the West Bengal government, given to individuals who have excelled in fields like art, culture, literature, public service, and sports.
The event was attended by Jhulan Goswami, former Indian cricketer and Bengal’s women’s cricket icon; Sports Minister Aroop Biswas; and actor-MP Mimi Chakraborty, who also hails from North Bengal. Richa’s parents, Manabendra and Swapna Ghosh, were present and received a standing ovation from the crowd.