Follow UsIndian captain Mithali Raj credited her teammates for giving it their all following Sunday's three-wicket loss to South Africa which saw them miss out on a place in the semifinals.
India managed to push South Africa till the last ball as Mignon du Preez (52 not out) and Shabnim Ismail (2 not out) ensured they chase down a target of 275 in 50 overs.
" I personally think the girls have given it all knowing the importance of today's game. It was a good game from both the sides, good for the sport but it ends our campaign but I'm very proud of our comeback into the tournament after a few losses," Mithali said in the post-match presentation.
The 39-year old felt that the team's bowling has been good in the tournament barring the games against Australia and South Africa, where they stumbled to defend par scores.
"Our bowlers have been really good apart from a couple of games. I felt the score was a good total, coming from the fact that we have defended similar scores in the past," she added.
India had to go without senior pacer Jhulan Goswami who missed out due to side strain.
"Jhulan's experience would have added a lot but it was a good opportunity for the other bowlers," she said.
In a possible reference to her and Goswami having played in their last World Cup, the legendary batter reflected on the elimination and thanked the fans for supporting the team.
"Everything does come to an end, it will take some time to settle the emotions but that's what sport is... Thanks to everybody who's turned out for every game of India. It was great to have all of you cheering for the girls," Mithali said.
South Africa skipper Sune Luus was delighted after the close win as she felt that the tough win will prepare them for the semifinal against England.
"I think this is how the semi-finals is gonna be, it won't be an easy match and today's game was great preparation. To get a win on top of that is very good and we hope to take the momentum forward," Luus said.
Luus was happy for Du Preez who anchored the chase after South Africa were reeling at 182/4.
"The team's extremely happy, we're happy for Mignon to finally get that 50. It's been a tough tournament for her but to see her flourish like this today, it just makes all of our hearts happy," Luus said.