Following India's historic victory at the Women's World Cup 2025, comparisons to the men's 1983 World Cup win have been drawn, but Sunil Gavaskar believes that the two triumphs, while both significant, should be viewed differently. Gavaskar, a member of the 1983 winning squad, emphasized that while the impact of both victories is equally important, the journey and context surrounding them were distinct.
The Indian women's cricket team clinched their first-ever World Cup title by defeating South Africa in the final by 52 runs on November 2 in Navi Mumbai. This victory came after a remarkable journey, including a record-breaking chase against Australia in the semi-final. Jemimah Rodrigues's unbeaten 127 in the semi-final was a standout performance, guiding India to a five-wicket victory over the defending champions. In the final, India posted 298/7, with Shafali Verma top-scoring with 87, and Deepti Sharma contributing an unbeaten 58. South Africa were then bowled out for 246, with Deepti Sharma taking a five-wicket haul.
Gavaskar acknowledged the significance of the women's team's achievement, stating that it would inspire a new generation of female cricketers in India. He noted that the win would encourage parents to see cricket as a viable career option for their daughters, further boosted by the Women’s Premier League (WPL). He also highlighted how this victory would make other countries recognize that India is now a strong force in women's cricket.
However, Gavaskar pointed out key differences between the two World Cup wins. He noted that in 1983, the Indian men's team had never progressed beyond the group stage in previous editions, making their victory a complete surprise. In contrast, the women's team had a better track record, having reached the World Cup final twice before, in 2005 and 2017. Gavaskar stated, "There were some who tried to compare this win with the men's team winning the World Cup in 1983. The men had never progressed beyond the group stage in earlier editions, and so everything from the knockout stage onward was new to them, while the women already had a better record, having been in two finals before this magnificent triumph".
Gavaskar also lauded Harmanpreet Kaur's leadership and suggested she keep her emotions in check. He praised her concentration and acknowledged her major role in the World Cup victory. After the win, Harmanpreet Kaur slipped the ball into her pocket, a gesture reminiscent of Gavaskar's own act after the 1983 World Cup win. Gavaskar said he hopes she takes autographs of all her teammates and maybe even the South Africans, because that will be a memento she'll cherish for life.
Despite not drawing direct parallels, Gavaskar recognized the women's team's World Cup win as one of the greatest triumphs in Indian cricket history. He said that he was overwhelmed with emotion as he watched the team win and script history. He emphasized that the team had worked hard and overcome pressure, making their comprehensive victory a moment to savor and cherish. Gavaskar believes that women's cricket in India has been steadily progressing, and this win is a culmination of their efforts.
