Navi Mumbai, November 2, 2025 – India has clinched its first-ever ICC Women's Cricket World Cup title, defeating South Africa by 52 runs in a historic final at the Dr DY Patil Sports Academy. The packed stadium in Navi Mumbai erupted in celebration as Harmanpreet Kaur and her team lifted the coveted trophy, a moment that marks a turning point for women's cricket in India.
After the victory, an emotional Harmanpreet Kaur, the captain of the Indian team, made a powerful vow: "This is just the beginning". Kaur's statement resonated with the millions of fans who have supported the team through years of hard work and near misses. This win marks the culmination of perseverance, and signals the rise of India as a powerhouse in women's cricket, inspiring countless young girls to pursue their dreams.
India, after winning the toss and electing to bat, posted a competitive total of 298 for 7 in their 50 overs. Shafali Verma set the tone with a brilliant 87 off 78 balls, while Deepti Sharma contributed a composed 58 off 58 deliveries. Their efforts were supported by Richa Ghosh, who added a valuable cameo in the final overs to bolster India's score.
South Africa's chase began steadily, but the Indian bowlers maintained relentless pressure. Laura Wolvaardt fought hard, scoring a century, but Deepti Sharma's exceptional bowling performance, claiming 5 wickets for 39 runs, derailed the South African innings. Key contributions from Shafali Verma, who took two wickets, further tightened India's grip on the match. The Proteas were eventually bowled out for 246 in 45.3 overs.
Deepti Sharma was named Player of the Tournament for her stellar all-round performance throughout the World Cup. She finished as the tournament's top wicket-taker with 22 wickets and also scored 215 runs, including three fifties. Shafali Verma was named Player of the Match for her outstanding performance in the final.
This victory holds special significance as it marks India's first World Cup title after previously losing in the finals of 2005 and 2017. In 2005, India lost to Australia, and in 2017, they were defeated by England. The win is not just a sporting achievement but a symbol of the progress and growing popularity of women's cricket in India.
Celebrations erupted across India as the nation rejoiced in the historic win. Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the team's exceptional performance and congratulated the players on their remarkable achievement.
Harmanpreet Kaur's journey to leading India to World Cup glory is an inspiring story of dedication and perseverance. From playing cricket with boys in her hometown of Moga, Punjab, to becoming the captain of the national team, Kaur has broken barriers and inspired a generation. Her leadership in the final, marked by tactical bowling changes and a steady captain's innings, was crucial to India's victory. Her first coach, Kamaldeesh Pal Singh Sodhi, expressed his joy and fulfillment, stating that it was his dream to see Indian women cricketers excel on the world stage.
The Indian team's victory is a testament to their talent, hard work, and determination. With this historic win, Harmanpreet Kaur and her team have etched their names in the annals of Indian cricket, paving the way for a brighter future for women in sports.
