Navi Mumbai, November 2, 2025 - In a moment that will be etched forever in the annals of Indian cricket, Amanjot Kaur’s stunning catch of Laura Wolvaardt proved to be the turning point in the ICC Women's Cricket World Cup final, leading India to a historic 52-run victory over South Africa. The packed DY Patil Stadium erupted in a frenzy as the young all-rounder clung onto a juggling catch, sending back the Proteas' captain, who was well-set on 101, and effectively sealing India's first-ever Women's World Cup title.
Wolvaardt, a modern-day great in women's cricket, had been anchoring the South African innings with a determined century, her second in a row, amidst relentless pressure from the Indian bowlers. With the game hanging in the balance, Deepti Sharma, who finished with a remarkable four-wicket haul, including a crucial clean bowl of Annerie Dercksen, produced a delivery that Wolvaardt could only manage to skew high towards long-on.
Amanjot Kaur, fielding at long-on, sprinted forward and initially pouched the ball, but it popped out as she went to ground. In a display of incredible athleticism and composure, she managed to keep her eye on the ball, juggle it twice, and finally secure it inches off the ground. The crowd held its breath as she completed the catch, and then erupted in thunderous applause as the significance of the moment sunk in.
The dismissal of Wolvaardt proved to be the decisive breakthrough India needed. Despite some resistance from the remaining South African batters, the Indian bowlers, led by Deepti Sharma and supported by Renuka Singh, Shree Charani, Shafali Verma, and Radha Yadav, tightened the screws and ensured that the opposition never regained momentum.
Shafali Verma, who wasn't even in the squad a week prior, had a stellar performance, scoring a brilliant 87 with the bat and taking two crucial wickets to be named Player of the Match. Deepti Sharma was named Player of the Series for her outstanding performance throughout the World Cup.
The victory sparked scenes of jubilation both on and off the field. For a sport long overshadowed by struggles for recognition, resources, and opportunities, this World Cup triumph marks a golden moment for Indian women's cricket. It symbolizes the rise of women's cricket in India, the perseverance of generations of players, and the growing fanbase that has embraced the team.
Harmanpreet Kaur, who has contributed significantly to Indian women's cricket, led the team to victory. This win places her alongside Kapil Dev, MS Dhoni and Rohit Sharma. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to award the team a record-breaking prize money of USD 4.48 million. This historic achievement will inspire millions of young girls to dream big and pursue their passion for cricket.
