Navi Mumbai, India – In a moment etched forever in the annals of Indian cricket, the women's team has clinched their first-ever World Cup title, defeating South Africa by 52 runs in a thrilling final held at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai. This historic victory marks the end of a long wait for the nation and signals the dawn of a new era for women's cricket in India.
After heartbreaking defeats in the finals of 2005 and 2017, the Harmanpreet Kaur-led side finally broke the jinx, delivering a dominant performance that captivated the nation. The victory was celebrated by fans, players, and leaders alike, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailing the team's "spectacular win" and their "exceptional teamwork and tenacity".
Opting to bat first after a rain delay, India posted a formidable total of 298/7 in their 50 overs. The innings was anchored by a brilliant 87 off 78 balls from Shafali Verma, who was named Player of the Match for her outstanding performance. Deepti Sharma also contributed a valuable 58, while Richa Ghosh added a quickfire 34 to provide the finishing touches.
South Africa's chase was spearheaded by a magnificent century from their captain, Laura Wolvaardt, who scored 101 off 98 balls. However, she found little support from the rest of the batting lineup, as the Indian bowlers maintained relentless pressure. Deepti Sharma was the pick of the bowlers, claiming 5 wickets for 39 runs and earning the Player of the Tournament award for her consistent performances throughout the World Cup.
The turning point in South Africa's chase came when Deepti Sharma bowled Annerie Dercksen with a perfect yorker, followed by the crucial dismissal of Wolvaardt, caught by Amanjot Kaur. India's fielding was also exceptional, with Harmanpreet Kaur taking a stunning catch to dismiss Nadine de Klerk. South Africa were eventually bowled out for 246 in 45.3 overs.
Shafali Verma's inclusion in the team was itself a story of serendipity, as she was called in as a replacement for the injured Pratika Rawal. Verma seized the opportunity, playing a match-winning knock and also contributing with two crucial wickets.
The victory sparked celebrations across India, with former players, celebrities, and fans expressing their joy and pride. Sachin Tendulkar, Virat Kohli, and other prominent figures lauded the team's achievement, recognizing it as a defining moment for Indian cricket.
This World Cup win is expected to have a significant impact on the growth and popularity of women's cricket in India and globally. It also signifies a major step towards gender equality in the sport, with the ICC announcing a record-breaking prize money for the tournament, including a winner's prize of $4.48 million (approximately ₹37.3 crore) for the Indian team. Smriti Mandhana emphasized the team's responsibility not just to win, but to keep growing women's cricket, acknowledging the incredible support they've received.
As the celebrations continue, the Indian women's cricket team stands as an inspiration for generations to come, their names etched in history as the champions of the world.
