The atmosphere at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai was electric on Sunday, November 2, 2025, as India faced South Africa in the final of the Women's World Cup. However, the energy soared to new heights with the surprise appearance of Indian cricket star Rohit Sharma. His presence in the stands, alongside his wife Ritika Sajdeh, and other notable personalities like Sachin Tendulkar and ICC Chairman Jay Shah, sent waves of excitement through the crowd.
Sharma, known for his fierce support of women's cricket, has long been an inspiration to many, including semi-final hero Jemimah Rodrigues. Cameras captured Sharma in the stands, cheering on the "Women in Blue". He was seen entering the hospitality box before settling in to watch the match.
The final was highly anticipated, especially after India's stunning semi-final victory against Australia, where they successfully chased a record-breaking 339 runs. Rodrigues's unbeaten 127, in partnership with captain Harmanpreet Kaur, was instrumental in that win.
In the final, South Africa won the toss and elected to field after a two-hour rain delay. Shafali Verma laid a solid platform for India, narrowly missing a century. She was eventually caught out at mid-off in the 28th over for a well-played 87. Smriti Mandhana also contributed with 45 runs, breaking Mithali Raj's record for the most runs by an Indian in a single edition of the Women's World Cup. Deepti Sharma anchored the innings with a run-a-ball 58, after a few quick wickets fell in the middle overs. India finished their innings at 298/7.
Sharma's involvement in the game was evident, even from the sidelines. He was seen expressing his disappointment with an umpire's decision to adjudge Deepti Sharma out, when replays suggested the ball was pitching outside leg stump. His reaction quickly went viral on social media, demonstrating his passion for the game and his support for the team.
Fans have expressed their delight at seeing Rohit Sharma support the women's team. Sharma had previously shared a message on Instagram to congratulate the team after their semi-final win against Australia.
Despite a plucky effort from South Africa, India managed to secure victory. When the final South African wicket fell, cameras again panned to Rohit Sharma, who was seen applauding and celebrating the Women in Blue's historic win.
